Download iPhone Walking Tours Application for Antigua
Guide Location: Guatemala » Antigua
Guide Type: Self-guided city tour
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 hour(s)
Transportation Mode: by foot
Travel Distance: 2.9 km
Guide Type: Self-guided city tour
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 hour(s)
Transportation Mode: by foot
Travel Distance: 2.9 km
Image Courtesy of Flickr and John_Pavelka
Author: Nick
Antigua is a terrific example of a Colonial city, as it was at one time. Inside Antigua, tourists will appreciate the historical and religious buildings, fountains, and mountains of the era that comprise of the city's landmarks. Enjoy the rich heritage of Antigua today.
Tour Stops and Attractions
1) The Arch of Santa Catalina
The Arch of Santa Catalina, located on 5a Avenida Nothe, was constructed in the 17th century. In the colonial era, the Arch was part of the Santa Catalina monastery but was partially destroyed at the end of 18th century by earthquakes. Today, the Arch of Santa Catalina serves as the most famous of the city's monuments and easily the most photographed.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and chensiyuan
2) Parque Central
Parque Central is situated in the heart of Antigua. The park serves as the headquarters for churches like the San Jose Cathedral, colonial government buildings (Palacio de los Capitanes), museums such as the Museo del Libro, souvenir shops, as well as restaurants and cafes.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and alq666
3) Union Water Tank
Jose Maria Palomo commanded the inauguration of the Plaza de la Union in 1853. In that era, only the richest had laundries and baths at their homes. The plaza was later re-named to the "Union Water Tank," as it was the public venue for washing and laundry. While at Union Water Tank, tourists will appreciate the lovely park with tall palm trees near the Tank from which you may admire stunning views of the volcano.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and John_Pavelka
4) San Francisco Cathedral
The cathedral dates back to 1540 when a small monastery was built in its place. The cathedral (added in 1579), despite the destructiveness of time, still stands and is considered to be one of the oldest churches in Antigua. The biggest attraction of the cathedral is the interesting wooden carvings and the tomb of Peter of Saint Joseph Betnacur - a missionary who converted many of the local Mayan population to Christianity.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Poldavo_(Alex)
5) San Lazaro Cemetery
The San Lazaro Cemetery, all white in color including the main church in the burial grounds, offers stunning views of mass tombs and mausoleums. The burial memorials are decorated with circlets and aromatic flowers, brilliantly landscaped, clean, and well-ordered with tree-lined corridors. The Cementerio is located in the southwest side of the city.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and vwilsonroberts
6) Rafael Landival Monument
Located on the Alameda Walk, south of the city, the Rafael Landival Monument stands as the funeral memorial for the famous Jesuit poet and priest. Rafael Landivar was born in Antigua and is regarded internationally for his work "Rusticatio Mexicana."
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Edgar López
Attractions Map
Visitor's Comments (0)
Visitor's Gallery (0)