Antigua is a small city surrounded by volcanoes in southern Guatemala. It’s renowned for its Spanish colonial buildings, many of them restored following a 1773 earthquake that ended Antigua’s 200-year reign as Guatemala’s colonial capital. Notable architectural examples include baroque La Merced church.
Antigua Guatemala is a beautiful city. It was once the capital of Guatemala, before several earthquakes rocked the city in the 1700s, destroying buildings and leaving ruined churches. The capital was moved to Guatemala City, which allowed Antigua to retain its charm as a small colonial town. Despite the large tourist and expat population here there is still a strong indigenous culture in Antigua, and although many of the indigenous Maya live in the surrounding villages where it is cheaper to live, you often see the women in their beautiful huipiles and long skirts, usually carrying something on their heads.
Antigua is one of the most expensive places in Guatemala, but luckily prices in Guatemala are still low compared to many of its Central American neighbors. If you eat and drink in the touristy gringo places, your costs will shoot up, but there are more than enough local bars and restaurants to keep your budget going for as long as you need it.
Places to visit in Antigua Guatemala:
- Arco de Santa Catalina
- Cerro de la Cruz
- Iglesia la Meced
- Convento las Capuchinas
- Iglesia la Catedral
Antigua Guatemala is the perfect place for a private tour, you are going to enjoy the view around one of the most magnificent and famous destinations in Central America.
