Walk Antigua Like a Local
- Duration: 3 Hours (approx.)
- Location: Guatemala, Sacatepequez
- Product code: ExAnWa
Lets immerse ourselves in the diversity of local Antigua culture. The nearly 500-year-old city is cradled by three volcanoes and accented with colorful facades of 16th century mansions, we will visit ancient buildings that once were convents, monasteries, and churches, becoming this a beautiful introduction to the Guatemalan lifestyle and culture.
Our wonderful day around Antigua Guatemala will be memorable enjoying hands-on experiences with local friends, discovering hightlights and traditional flavors obtaining an extraordinary combination of past and present.
Walking by the cobblestone streets at each historical point we will find a niche of magical postals to remember forever, such as San Francisco church, Santo Domingo, La Merced church, the street with the famous Santa Catalina Arch and buildings around the Main Square (Municipality, Palace, Cathedral).
We will get something to drink through our walking experience such as locally produced artisanal coffee, ancestral Mayan chocolate, local artisanal beer.
Meeting Point: La Catedral Church Entrance, If the church entrance is close, please stay right infront at the central park side facing La Catedral, try to be 15 minutes before starting time.
1. Main Square: In the seventeenth century, the Convent of Santo Domingo was one of the largest in the Americas. The 1773 Santa Marta earthquake nearly destroyed it. Today, Casa Santo Domingo has risen from its ruins, offering visitors a beautifully restored site where every corner reveals meticulous restoration, blending history and elegance.
2. San Francisco El Grande: One of the most emblematic stops in our "Walk Antigua Like a Local" experience is San Francisco el Grande. Here lies the tomb of Hermano Pedro de San José Betancur, Guatemala’s only saint. This site is a cultural landmark, attracting visitors from around the world who come together in a spirit of hope and inspiration, seeking to improve their lives through his legacy.
4. Jade Museum: Jade has been recognized as the stone of eternal life, abundance and hope. For over 5000 years our culture has admired and used its hardness and resistance, making it the perfect tool for decorating, defending or hunting. We are one of the 4 countries with Jadeite Jade.
5. Chocolate Museum: We will sample Chocolate at this tasty Museum, from pure dark chocolate to unique blends infused with local flavors such as cardamom, cinnamon, and coffee. Our vission including this stop is to immerse into our culture richness discovering the Cacao characteristics, the way it has impacted the world and its improvement through time.
6. Santa Catarina Arch street: The Santa Catalina Arch, Convent Cloister and the nave of the Church make up the monumental complex of the Old Convent of Santa Catalina Virgen y Mártir;
We will take our time to admire the iconic Yellow Arch, a symbol of our city, with a stunning volcano as the backdrop. This picturesque setting provides the perfect opportunity for a memorable photo.
7. La Merced Church Frontage: The facade of the church of La Merced is a stunning example of architectural influence and diverse styles, uniquely adapted to seismic activity. Its charming elements contribute to the colonial beauty of Antigua.
