The Parks, Churches and Ruins of Antigua
Antigua, located in the central highlands of Guatemala, was settled as the third capital of Guatemala in 1543 by Spanish conquistadors after indigenous uprisings took place in the first capital and after a volcano destroyed the second capital over a 20 year time period. Upon suffering from multiple earthquakes and severe destruction in 1773, the capital was ordered to move to Guatemala City by the Spanish Crown.
During its time as capital, Antigua became home to many religious orders that constructed several churches and convents near the main square and parks. As a result of the earthquakes, the colonial city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features many ruins as well. Famous for its Spanish Baroque influenced architecture, Antigua is a wonderful place to visit in Guatemala. Continue reading “Antigua’s Parks, Churches, and Ruins”