Antigua Guatemala Santiago De Los Caballeros

Originally founded as Santiago de los Caballeros de Guatemala, Antigua Guatemala is a city steeped in over 500 years of history. Located in the central highlands of Guatemala, it was the colonial capital of the region until it was destroyed by the 1773 earthquakes. Remnants of its former status remain in its surviving colonial-era buildings and cobblestone streets, all surrounded by the verdant hills of central America.

Antigua Guatemala Santiago De Los Caballeros Summary

Attraction Name: Antigua Guatemala
Country: Guatemala
Continent: North America
Capital Name: Guatemala City
Language: Spanish
Currency: Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Nationality: Guatemalan

Why must you visit Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala is an iconic destination in Central America. It is known for its history, colonial architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the city’s cobblestone streets, taste the local cuisine, and explore neighboring villages. The city’s rich culture, beautiful scenery, and friendly people make it a great place to explore and relax.

Tell us about Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala (Spanish for “Old Guatemala”) is a city in the central highlands of Guatemala famous for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and volcanic landscape. It served as the capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala and later of Central America. Antigua is best known as a tourist destination, and it is especially popular among tourists due to its steep cobblestone streets and highly decorative Spanish-Baroque influenced architecture.

The city has numerous architectural and cultural attractions, including churches, monasteries and ruins of old colonial buildings. In 1979, Antigua Guatemala was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals and is known for its lively markets and festivals. In addition to its colonial-era architecture and culture, Antigua is also known for its coffee and textiles. The city is home to numerous restaurants, bars, coffee shops, art galleries and craft stores selling locally handmade products.

Antigua Guatemala is surrounded by three volcanoes, Agua, Acatenango and Fuego, and each year the city hosts several festivals and other events throughout the year to celebrate its vibrant culture.

What are the things to do in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala is a stunningly beautiful city filled with colonial architecture and history around every corner. With majestic volcanoes rising up in the distance, Antigua is the perfect place to explore, relax, and experience Guatemalan culture and delicious cuisine. There is so much to do in Antigua Guatemala, it can be hard to decide what to do first!

Take a city walking tour around the cobblestone streets of Antigua Guatemala to learn more about its colonial legacy. Visit the Iglesia de San Francisco, a stunning late-baroque-style church, or explore the town’s vast array of museums. Visit the Centro de Artisanos, where local artisans sell colorful handmade items and explore the ruins of the city’s Royal Palace and City Hall.

Head out of the city to explore some of Guatemala’s surrounding natural beauty. Visit nearby Pacaya Volcano and hike up to see molten lava and boiling mud pits or grab a mountain bike and cruise up and down the slopes. Go on an adventure tour to explore Guatemala’s many waterfalls or take a trip to the famous Lake Atitlán where you can swim in the turquoise waters or take a boat tour among the volcanoes and small villages.

A trip to Antigua Guatemala isn’t complete without experiencing the city’s food and culture. Visit one of the many local markets or grab a bite or two of the city’s famous tortillas con chicharrón. Spend your evenings enjoying traditional Guatemalan music at popular local pubs and restaurants.

Antigua Guatemala is a jewel and a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore and experience the beauty, history and culture of this amazing country. From the fascinating colonial architecture to the startling natural beauty, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights and activities for everyone to enjoy.

What are the best foods at Antigua Guatemala?

The best foods at Antigua Guatemala are:

Tamal de Elote: A traditional corn tamale wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Chiles Rellenos: A spicy dish made of stuffed poblano pepper.
Jocón: A traditional Guatemalan stew made with green tomatoes, onions, peppers, garlic, cilantro, and pork.
Pollo en Cazuela: A traditional chicken and vegetable stew cooked in a clay pot.
Fiambre: A popular Guatemalan dish made with a variety of meats, cheeses, eggs and pickled vegetables.
Pepián: A traditional Guatemalan stew made with chicken or beef, green or red chiles, tomatoes, onions, cilantro and pumpkin seeds.
Chicharrón: Fried pork cracklings served with red salsa.
Huevos Motuleños: A popular dish made of two fried eggs served over refried beans, boiled eggs, ham, and tomato sauce.
Torta de Platano: A traditional Guatemalan banana cake.
Tikal: A traditional Guatemalan cake made with corn and plantain.