"Antigua - a step back in time" Antigua Guatemala by Sue08080

Antigua Guatemala Travel Guide: 641 reviews and 1,874 photos

The Arch of Santa Catalina - Antigua Guatemala

History

Anitugua, the old capitol of Guatemala, is a gentle introduction to the country. It is a charming place, although in no way representative of the rest of this interesting nation. It is an excellent start to a visit here, only 45 minutes from the airport in Guatemala City. The streets are lined with restaurants, bars, hotels and shops. People are friendly and tourists abound. Take a day or two here to unwind and enjoy yourself.

Shades of old Spain

La Merced

Antigua boasts a multitude of churches in various states of repair. Each is unique and beautiful in its own way.

Pictured here is La Merced with a facade that looks like Wedgwood china. It has been beautifully restored, painted yellow and white, and filled with plaster moulding of intricate patterns. Look closely and you can find the outline of a corn cob...probably added by Mayan laborers...a tribute to the corn god?

Old charm....modern luxury

halls of the Casa Santo Domingo

A beautiful example of the charm and history of Antigua is the Hotel Casa Santo Domingo. This former convent is a combination of history and modern conveniences in a magnificent setting. It is a lush paradise, from the charming rooms, delicious food, friendly employees, to the gleaming corridors. Splurge for a stay there.

Pros and Cons

Pros:beauty, convenience, fun
Cons:full of tourists
In a nutshell:a gentle intro to Guatemala

Last visit to Antigua Guatemala: Aug 2005
Intro Updated May 4, 2006
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Reviews (13)

Captain-Generals' Palace - Antigua Guatemala

Captain-Generals' Palace Things to Do (6)

This building on the Parque Central is to the right when facing the Cathedral. It was once the governmental center of... more travel advice

Meet me at the Parque Central Things to Do (6)

THE people watching center of Antigua is the Parque Central....students, vendors, shoeshine boys, tourists, lovers,... more travel advice

rooftops and volcanoes - Antigua Guatemala

roof top views Off The Beaten Path (3)

The rooftops of Antigua provide spectacular views. This view is from the roof of the Popenoe house, which is reached... more travel advice

pigeon houses Off The Beaten Path (3)

In the upper reaches of the casa Popenoe you can tour the pigeon loft which is empty now. Its original occupants... more travel advice

Travelogues (1)

Written Apr 9, 2006

2 photos

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Comments (35)

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balhannah Jul 6, 2010 at 5:50 PM

Your Hotel sounds wonderful, think I would like it!
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Hopkid May 14, 2008 at 5:47 PM

We also enjoyed a great dinner at Casa Santa Domingo. Nice splurge on your part to stay there!
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Mailo May 13, 2007 at 10:28 AM

I love your pages, congratulations !
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CC81 Aug 7, 2006 at 8:47 PM

Yes, i went to Ny and Minnesota, it was great. Check out my pictures and you`ll meet my lovely nephew (he lives in MN) Cecilia
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Sininen Jul 14, 2006 at 11:56 AM

I want to go to Antigua - now! Great page with lots of information and beautiful pics. Happy birthday from Finland!
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Nemorino Jul 10, 2006 at 2:33 PM

I like the idea of getting a "gentle introduction" to a country in a place like this. Sounds really nice, but too bad about that leaky museum.
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Redlats Jun 29, 2006 at 3:12 PM

Your pictures and words paint a nice description of Guatemala. I will have to venture farther afield from Merida next visit.
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JourneyOf1 Jun 29, 2006 at 5:49 AM

Very vivid recollections and photos, seems like it was a wonderful trip indeed. Greetings from Yvette in Berlin
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tiabunna Jun 16, 2006 at 10:48 PM

A thoroughly enjoyable page on a fascinating looking place. Marvellous view from the pigeon loft, too.
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AlbuqRay Jun 14, 2006 at 4:58 PM

Susan, I enjoyed your tips and excellent pictures on Antigua. I was surprised at the cost of the hotel though.