Inaugurated in 1925, the zoo is mostly visited by families on weekends, when it gets really busy, and by school groups during the week. It has a wide variety of animals from Guatemala and other parts of the world. Animals are placed in cages which resemble their natural habitats, and there are many information boards. A tour around the zoo can take from a half to a full day. Food, sweets and drinks are available from stands at the entrance and around the park. There are also recreation areas for children and benches strategically placed for adults needing a rest.
This museum displays a collection of highly artistic, historical and scientific value, that includes archaeological objects from Central America and colonial art. It shows the development of Guatemalan culture throughout the years. It offers special guided tours for children and a workshop of colonial silverware for youngsters. The shop, located in the reception area, stocks books, magazines, posters, calendars and paintings, all related to the Mayan culture from the pre-Hispanic and colonial period. They also stock folk, marimba and classical music CDs, as well as videos and maps of Guatemala.
This museum specializes in the collection, preservation, research, promotion and compilation of documents related to the Mayan textiles in Guatemala. The colorful exhibition consists of an extensive collection of textiles from over 140 communities produced in different periods. The funky interior of the museum acts as an alluring backdrop for the two permanent exhibitions: watercolors by Carmen L. Pettersen depicting the Mayan costumes, and paintings by Andres Curruchich showing the daily customs of the Kaqchikel Mayan community. Its facilities include an art gallery displaying handicrafts and paintings, a bookstore and a shop selling textiles, lamps, jewelry, pictures, mirrors, wooden furniture and other handmade goods. There is even a library specializing in Mayan textiles and related subjects, and an area for children, the Museo de la Niñez y de la Juventud (Museum of Children and Young People). The latter conducts several interactive activities related to textiles such as painting, embroidering and weaving on wooden looms, using natural inks.
Founded in 1945, the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology houses a collection of Mayan archaeological remains. These are mainly jade and obsidian, though there are also pottery pieces and objects taken from royal tombs. The building dates back to the 1940's and its architecture is in the style of that period. After being closed for several years for refurbishment, the museum was reopened in 1977 as a showcase for the legacy of the Maya.
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.
Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad de San Carlos y Jardín Botánico is a unique museum in Guatemala City. The museum is owned by the School of Biology and the faculty of chemical sciences and pharmacy of the University of San Carlos. Inaugurated in 1922, the museum currently consists of more than 60,000 copies of the list of flora and fauna around Guatemala. International visitors have to pay 10GTQ as admission fees.
Auditorio Juan Bautista Gutierrez is located within the premises of Universidad Francisco Marroquín. The auditorium with a seating capacity of 603, has 2 general dressing rooms and 8 single dressing rooms as well. The place has a comfortable seating arrangement with the latest light and sound equipment. The venue is mainly used for theaters and concerts.
Since its inception, Istituto Italiano Di Cultura has been molding talented young artists and performers, into famed personalities and stars of the future. Known to dish out some of the inspiring and breath-taking shows, this is one venue that assures its audience is more than just entertained. From plays and musicals, to concerts and dance performances, shows at this venue are certain to have you on the edge of your seat, from the beginning to the end.
While Teatro Elena might not be amongst the biggest venues in the city, it certainly is one of the most loved ones. Known to showcase some of the most iconic and enthralling performances, there's no doubt that this is one of the best places to catch a play. Playing host to highly talented theater troupes, bands and solo artists, audiences can find more than their fair share of entertainment at this venue. Witness some of the most inspirational yet exciting theater performances and feel the hair on the back of your neck stand on its end to the music of fabulous artists.
Museo del Ferrocarril is a place to get acquainted with Guatemala's rail culture. Guided tours are provided to the patrons where information is given about the displayed exhibits like antique clocks, clothing, machinery, maps and telegraphs. The trains were in use in the city of Guatemala over 40 years ago and these trains are still well maintained. Patrons are presented with the travel culture of the ancient days.
Centro Cultural de Espana en Guatemala is one of the popular places of entertainment. The venue offers entertainment in cinemas, cultural activities, music and a lot more. Historical, cultural and social plays are also conducted here. It also invites patrons to enrol for various dance competitions. Musical shows by different artists are conducted here and the venue also provides space to host private events and parties. A great place to get acquainted with the regional culture and participate in the activities offered by the venue.