Points Of Interest In Antigua Guatemala

An Overview of Antigua

Antigua is a small city ringed by volcanos and home to many restored colonial buildings. The small town once served as Guatemala’s colonial capital, but a devastating earthquake in 1773 caused the colonial seat of power to shift away. The city is home to numerous ruins, baroque-styled buildings, important churches, interesting hiking zones, beautiful countryside scenery and a thriving market. The city is one of the most popular tourist destinations for visitors leaving Guatemala City. With numerous preserved ruins, amazing shops and a variety of tourism agencies, there are many points of interest in Antigua.

Points Of Interest In Antigua

Volcán de Fuego

While many volcanos of Guatemala are spectacular, Volcán de Fuego or Chi Q’aq is especially active. It sits about 16 kilometers to the west of Antigua Visitors can hike a nearby mountain ridge for views of the lava and smoke emerging from the peak. Note that the weather at the high altitude can be quite chilly in the evening, when the volcano is brightest. Likewise, there are high winds and loose sands on the climb, so make sure to weatherproof electronics.

Cerro de la Cruz Overlook

Otherwise known as the “Hill of the Cross,” this is a popular overlook for the city, offering sweeping views of the town below.

San Francisco Church

With pale walls and ornate carvings, the San Francisco el Grande church is one of the most popular and frequently-visited sanctuaries in the city. The structure houses the beautiful shrine of Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur.

Pacaya Volcan

Located slightly to the East of Antigua, Pacaya is a popular tourist destination. The ever-smoking summit is located within Pacaya National Park, which is home to numerous wildlife zones and hiking trails. The volcano is known for its slow-moving lava field, which is a popular tourism feature and hiking destination.

ChocoMuseo

This is a popular chocolate museum which showcases the creation of chocolate in the region, along with workshops to make traditional chocolate candies.

Santa Catalina Arch

This low, elegant arch is the most iconic feature of Antigua, serving as a vital landmark on 5th Avenue North. The arch once connected the Santa Catalina convent to a school, allowing resident nuns to pass between buildings without walking on the streets.

Iglesia de la Merced

Located in Antigua, this is a beautiful canary-yellow church.

Casa Popenoe

This is a unique restored historical site built to better preserve the architectural potency of the region. Casa Popenoe showcases the impact earthquakes have had on the region and Guatemalan architecture, foreign influences safeguarding colonial architecture and a fully restored garden, building and property.

Sunflowers of Antigua

Thanks to the region’s wonderful, stable climate, there are specialized gardens in the area which keep sunflowers blooming year-round.

Convento de las Capuchinas

This site contains the ruins of a notable convent with excellent examples of 18th-centruy convent structures in the region.

Convento Santa Clara

These are the final remains of a large religions complex from the early 1700s.

Handicrafts Market Antigua

Catering mainly to tourists, Antigua is filled with artisinal markets showcasing a vast array of traditional souvenirs, goods, artworks, snacks and more.

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