Guatemala

Antigua is a small city surrounded by volcanoes in southern Guatemala. It’s renowned for its Spanish colonial buildings, many of them restored following a 1773 earthquake that ended Antigua’s 200-year reign as Guatemala’s colonial capital. Notable architectural examples include baroque La Merced church. It’s an integral part of the city’s famous Semana Santa, a holy week with parades and rituals. Visitors can explore the life of 18th-century nuns in the well-preserved ruins of Capuchinas Convent, featuring courtyards, gardens, bathing halls and private cells. Also partly in ruins is 17th-century Antigua Guatemala Cathedral on Plaza Mayor, the city’s central square. Shopping options range from high-end jewelry and clothing stores to art galleries and street vendors selling local crafts. Spanish-language schools also abound. Outside the city, guided hikes ascend Pacaya, an active volcano rising 2,552 meters. Other outdoor pursuits in the area include mountain biking, horseback riding and rock climbing. Things to do Based on traveler visits and local insights

Antigua is a small city surrounded by volcanoes in southern Guatemala. It’s renowned for its Spanish colonial buildings, many of them restored following a 1773 earthquake that ended Antigua’s 200-year reign as Guatemala’s colonial capital. Notable architectural examples include baroque La Merced church. It’s an integral part of the city’s famous Semana Santa, a holy week with parades and rituals. Visitors can explore the life of 18th-century nuns in the well-preserved ruins of Capuchinas Convent, featuring courtyards, gardens, bathing halls and private cells. Also partly in ruins is 17th-century Antigua Guatemala Cathedral on Plaza Mayor, the city’s central square. Shopping options range from high-end jewelry and clothing stores to art galleries and street vendors selling local crafts. Spanish-language schools also abound. Outside the city, guided hikes ascend Pacaya, an active volcano rising 2,552 meters. Other outdoor pursuits in the area include mountain biking, horseback riding and rock climbing. Things to do Based on traveler visits and local insights