A traditional church constructed in the classical style, the Cathedral of Guatemala City has established itself as a significant spot in the city. The cathedral's structure is reminiscent of baroque architecture, with twin bell towers flanking the main entrance of the building. Spires jut from the vaulting roof of the church, and the stones are engraved with symbols. A statue is embedded into the wall above the vestibule. The interior of the cathedral is simple yet elegant, rows of benches neatly lined in the nave overlooking the altar. Intricate chandeliers swing from the arched ceilings of the building, and the cathedral is truly a testament to the architectural styles which prevailed in the past.
The best national artists, including Alfredo Galvez Suarez, Julio Urruela, Rodolfo Galiotti Torres and Carlos Rigalt, participated in the construction of this building, commissioned by General Jorge Ubico between 1936 and 1943. Located on the north side of Plaza Mayor, the palace was built in an eclectic style, blending Renaissance, neo-Classical and Baroque architecture. Two stone columns flank the main entrance of the elegant building, and paved roads encompass the spot it stands on. Until a few years ago, this was where the presidential offices were situated. Today it functions as an art gallery displaying Guatemalan paintings. Groups can arrange guided tours and learn more about the history of this magnificent building. Incidentally, the palace's drawing room contains the exact center of Guatemala, called Kilometer Cero.
This archeological site from the late pre-classical period constituted the largest and most powerful Mayan city of the highlands. Built by the Mayan civilization, it was located on a fertile plain at an elevation of 1,500 meters. It was a very important commercial center, which traded in jade and obsidian. The area comprises over 200 excavations showing Mayan ceramics, sculpture and architecture. Many of the structures remain at an underground level, as that is the best way to preserve them. The excavations show the engineering and architectural works of the Mayan civilization that inhabited this vast city.
Antigua is among the oldest and most beautiful towns in Guatemala, even the Americas. Its clean air, peaceful atmosphere, pleasant accommodation, lively bar scene and great choice of restaurants make it a favorite place to visit. Although nowadays a bit removed from traditional Guatemalan culture due to its popularity with tourists, Antigua still retains its old charm, with cobbled streets, colonial houses and beautiful surroundings. Set in a valley close to Agua, Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes, the town provides stunning views. Most of Antigua's buildings date from the 17th and 18th centuries. Many ruins are well-preserved and open for public viewing. In addition, there are more than 40 language schools with very competitive prices, making it the main destination in Central America for travelers wishing to learn Spanish. The best Easter festivities in the country also take place here.
Experience the luxurious and lavish lifestyle of the affluent Spanish families at the Casa Popenoe. This colonial mansion that belongs to the seventeenth century and it represents the elite class. Restored and renovated by Wilson Popenoe, it features rich interiors, period furniture and furnishings, paintings and much more that leave you in awe. Do drop-in at Casa Popenoe for a glimpse into the life of rich and famous.
Nestle on a hill south of the town Santa Lucia Cotzumalguapa, Finca El Baúl is an archaeological site and an active religious site for the the people of Maya. The site once consisted of stones with Mayan carvings and locals often visit the site to light candles, conduct prayers and religious rituals.
This temple mixes Baroque and neo-classical architectural styles. The high altar contains the wooden images of Jesús Crucificado and La Pasión. The church also shows the image of Inmaculada Concepción, a sculpture which was donated by Carlos V. This Franciscan temple was designed by architects of the religious congregation. Its construction started in 1800 and finished 29 years later. Iglesia de San Francisco is definitely a must-visit.
Experience the luxurious and lavish lifestyle of the affluent Spanish families at the Casa Popenoe. This colonial mansion that belongs to the seventeenth century and it represents the elite class. Restored and renovated by Wilson Popenoe, it features rich interiors, period furniture and furnishings, paintings and much more that leave you in awe. Do drop-in at Casa Popenoe for a glimpse into the life of rich and famous.
A traditional church constructed in the classical style, the Cathedral of Guatemala City has established itself as a significant spot in the city. The cathedral's structure is reminiscent of baroque architecture, with twin bell towers flanking the main entrance of the building. Spires jut from the vaulting roof of the church, and the stones are engraved with symbols. A statue is embedded into the wall above the vestibule. The interior of the cathedral is simple yet elegant, rows of benches neatly lined in the nave overlooking the altar. Intricate chandeliers swing from the arched ceilings of the building, and the cathedral is truly a testament to the architectural styles which prevailed in the past.
The best national artists, including Alfredo Galvez Suarez, Julio Urruela, Rodolfo Galiotti Torres and Carlos Rigalt, participated in the construction of this building, commissioned by General Jorge Ubico between 1936 and 1943. Located on the north side of Plaza Mayor, the palace was built in an eclectic style, blending Renaissance, neo-Classical and Baroque architecture. Two stone columns flank the main entrance of the elegant building, and paved roads encompass the spot it stands on. Until a few years ago, this was where the presidential offices were situated. Today it functions as an art gallery displaying Guatemalan paintings. Groups can arrange guided tours and learn more about the history of this magnificent building. Incidentally, the palace's drawing room contains the exact center of Guatemala, called Kilometer Cero.
A significant part of the Sixth Avenue in Zone 1 or the historical center of Guatemala City is known as the Paseo de la Sexta. Initially, the street was developed in order to attract investment and to create a place for cultural activities. Today the street is lined with a number of eclectic restaurants, bars and cafes as well as many shopping spots adorn various nooks and corners of Paseo de la Sexta. Also, the gardens and squares that exist along this stretch have become meeting spots for locals and tourists. Dance, theater and other forms of arts find expression here each month through an initiative spear headed by the Department of Education and Culture.
This archeological site from the late pre-classical period constituted the largest and most powerful Mayan city of the highlands. Built by the Mayan civilization, it was located on a fertile plain at an elevation of 1,500 meters. It was a very important commercial center, which traded in jade and obsidian. The area comprises over 200 excavations showing Mayan ceramics, sculpture and architecture. Many of the structures remain at an underground level, as that is the best way to preserve them. The excavations show the engineering and architectural works of the Mayan civilization that inhabited this vast city.