Parque Central
Antigua Guatemala`s Central Park is best known by the locals as Plaza Central, this place holds a lot of history throughout its years of existence. It feels like a time machine. Here, you´ll be surrounded by the first national palace, the first Cathedral of Guatemala, and in the center of the park the mermaid´s fountain.
Catedral de San Jose
The construction of the first Cathedral started in 1545 but after an earthquake, it was finally inaugurated in 1680. The range of Cathedral was given in 1743 and it was the most luxurious Cathedral in all Central America by that time. After the tremendous earthquake of Santa Marta in 1773, the Cathedral was left in ruins. The facade was restored and the ruins can be visited nowadays.
Arco de Santa Catalina
We will move on to the most famous point in Antigua Guatemala: The Arch Street, where the Santa Catalina Arch is located. This place has become the symbol of Antigua and the central image on most postcards. In its origins, this arch was built by the Santa Catarina Mártir Convent in 1693 as a bridge to move from one point to another without being seen. Get ready to take jaw-dropping photos!
Iglesia La Merced
This breathtaking yellow and white church was built in 1749 and is the best example of Guatemalan baroque architecture.
Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
It is the biggest Monastery in Antigua Guatemala. Located on the grounds of the Santo Domingo Monastery, Casa Santo Domingo began life as the mainstay for one of the most important convents in the Americas. Those who lived in this sanctuary followed the order of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, and the monastery acted as a shelter for them. Its origins can be traced back to 1538 when the first Dominicans arrived in Guatemala, and during this time the monastery was a grand, two-towered, ten-belled building filled with riches and relics. Unfortunately, the monastery was partially destroyed in 1773 by the Santa Marta earthquake, and what still stands has become a monument preserving the baroque architecture and treasures of the period. The ancient walls, brick archways, and tile corridors convey the history of the original Casa Santo Domingo, and today part of the ruins have been turned into Antigua’s only five-star hotel, which opened in 1989.
Jade Maya
Our next stop is Jade Maya, the best place to know about the 3000 years of history of jade in Guatemala. The Mayans are a millenary culture full of charm and wisdom. For them, jade represented life, fertility, and power. It was more valuable than gold. Get immersed in the fascinating history of the “eternal life rock”.
Valhalla Macadamia Farm
The macadamia nut has many nutritional properties that are appreciated. This farm grows and harvests macadamia nuts, it is used to eat and to develop natural products such as oils to improve skin health. You`ll love spending time outdoors and between the natural paths. Then, you can relax by receiving a facial massage with macadamia oil so that you can appreciate all its benefits on your own. You can buy a snack in the restaurant and take incredible photos.
