ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA

Antigua, located in the central highlands of Guatemala, is a historic city that transports visitors back in time with its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture (remodeled by continuous tremors) and rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1524, Antigua was once the capital of the Spanish Kingdom of Guatemala and has since become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.

One of the main attractions in Antigua is its stunning colonial architecture, which has been beautifully restored and preserved over the years. Visitors can stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the pastel-colored buildings (primarily yellow, blue, orange, and white) and intricately carved wooden balconies. Some of the most notable architectural wonders include the Cathedral de San José, the Palacio de los Capitanes, and the Convento de Las Capuchinas.

In addition to its architectural beauty, Antigua is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a vibrant indigenous community that celebrates its traditions and customs through dance, music, and food. Visitors can immerse themselves in this culture by attending local festivals, such as the Antigua Carnival, or by visiting one of the many artisan markets that sell handcrafted goods and textiles.

For those who are interested in outdoor activities, Antigua offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the nearby volcanoes. The city is surrounded by three towering volcanoes – Agua, Acatenango, and Fuego – and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. During a walk around the city, you can feel the shaking and see the fiery blasts of El Fuego during one of its many eruptions. 

Another highlight of Antigua is its vibrant food scene. The city is known for its delicious cuisine, which blends traditional Mayan ingredients with Spanish, Mexican, and Central American flavors. Visitors can sample local dishes, such as pepian (a spicy chicken stew), or enjoy a cup of the famous Antiguan coffee.

Though not visible to the naked eye, ash from the explosions lands lightly on top of the tiled roofs creating nutrient rich beds that create the perfect environment to grow flowers and shrubs when fed by the rains. So don’t forget to look up, with caution due to unlevel ground, when touring this beautiful city.

Each morning is guaranteed with handfuls of local buses aka “chicken buses” customized with paintings, colors, lights to represent the characters of their drivers. Weaving through the buses you will find hundreds of motorcycles, Tuk-Tuk (three wheeled motorcycles) and cars trying to get to their destinations.