The Colonial era left a gigantic architectural mark in the Guatemala city of Antigua. Inside the city of Antigua, tourists will cherish the plethora of beautiful churches and monasteries. Relive Guatemala's glorious colonial days and learn how the word of God was spread in those times.
1) Saint Sebastian Church
Saint Sebastian is one of the oldest churches in the city. The church was built in 1565 in honor of Antigua’s protector Saint Sebastian. It was then elevated to a parish church at the end of 17th century. Despite the restoration work of several religious orders to save the church from destruction, the infrastructure was once again severely hit by earthquake in the 1770's. The famous Jesuit poet and priest Rafael Landívar was baptized in this church.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Rolando Ruíz
2) Santa Teresa Church
Santa Teresa Church was built at the end of the 17th century by one of the most important architects of Colonial era - Jose Porres. The Order of Barefoot Carmelites made the church its home years before the little that was left of this church became an ancient ruin. Despite the subtle remains, the site still attracts a large number of visitors each year.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Roberto Urrea
3) El Carmen Church
El Carmen was erected to honor Lady of El Carmen in 1638. The building itself features stucco-decorated, baroque-style columns, that makes the main entrance truly impressive. El Carmen is also visited for its colonial paintings, statues, and luxurious altar.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and chensiyuan
4) Church of the Company of Jesus
Just like many of Antigua’s temples, the Church of the Company of Jesus was founded after a Jesuit petition was made to build a school here in 1561. The permission was granted and work began, paving the way, about 50 years later, for both a school and temple. In the beginning of 1990's, an International Education Center was also opened at the site. Today’s cultural activities include painting exhibitions, theater, and poetry reading.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Edgar López
5) Santa Lucia Church
The origins of Santa Lucia Church date back to 1542, the same year as the foundation of Antigua. Santa Lucia was one of the first temples to invite both locals and natives to participate in the church’s liturgy. Also, Santa Lucia’s twin bell tower design is a bit different than the facades of most of the churches in Antigua.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Edgar López
6) Bethlehem Church
The church of the Order of Bethlehem was built in 1666, one year before the most beloved saint of Guatemala (and the founder of this Order), San Pedro died. Once a slaughterhouse, then a hospital, the church has finally transformed into a catholic school titled the "Hostel of Bethlehem." Outside, visitors will discover a statue of Hermano Pedro.
7) Sacred Cross Hermitage
The history of Sacred Cross dates back to 1664, when Dominican monks proposed to build a new temple in the neighborhood. The Indian and mulattoes, the main residents of the area, were cared by the mission. They were also the ones who helped restore the temple.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Chensiyuan