Sights

Arco de Santa Catalina

Antigua's number one landmark: The yellow arch over 5a Avenida Norte was built in the 17th century so that the nuns of the Santa Catalina convent could cross the street without being seen. Today, it is the most photographed motif in Guatemala — especially with the Volcán de Agua in the background. Free, always accessible.

Cathedral San José

The cathedral at Parque Central was built in 1545, destroyed multiple times by earthquakes, and partially rebuilt. The ruins of the original main nave behind the current church are impressive — an open roof structure, ivy-covered walls, and an almost mystical atmosphere. Entry to ruins: approx. 5 GTQ.

La Merced

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced has one of the most beautiful baroque facades in Guatemala: intricate stucco decorations in bright yellow and white. The adjacent cloister courtyard with its huge fountain and the ruins of the cloister are a place of tranquility. Entry to cloister: approx. 5 GTQ.

Convento de las Capuchinas

The former Capuchin convent (1736) is the best-preserved monastic ruin in Antigua. The circular washroom with 18 niches and the underground passages are architecturally fascinating. Entry: approx. 50 GTQ.

Convento de Santo Domingo

The once largest monastery in Central America is now a luxury hotel with a museum — but the ruins, gardens, crypts, and the archaeological museum are also accessible to non-guests. A place of quiet beauty. Entry to museum: approx. 40 GTQ.

San Juan el Obispo & Surroundings

Just 15 minutes from Antigua are the villages of San Juan el Obispo, Santa María de Jesús, and San Antonio Aguas Calientes — known for traditional weaving. Here you can see women working on backstrap looms and buy directly from the artisans. Shared taxis from Antigua: a few Quetzales.