Behind the Mercado Central, on the outskirts of Antigua, you will find the imposing ruins of this 18th century Church and Monastery built by the Franciscan Recollects from 1701 – 1715. Their Church was one of the largest in the former capital of Guatemala. Sadly, ravaged by earthquakes and neglect, only a skeletal structure remains of this once sprawling spiritual center, but it’s well worth a visit when visiting Antigua.

Perched atop the hills that surround the colonial city of Antigua Guatemala stands the Cerro de la Cruz, offering a panoramic vista that captures the essence of this remarkable destination. With its commanding views of the city’s architectural splendor and the breathtaking backdrop of surrounding volcanoes, Cerro de la Cruz is a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable experience.

Iglesia Escuela de Cristo is a beautiful Spanish colonial, and still active, church located on the southeast side of Antigua. The original church and hermitage were built by the Franciscans in the early 16th century. It remained under their care until the Escuela de Cristo was founded in 1664. In 1730, Master Architect Diego de Porras rebuilt the church that you see here today. The church is particularly famous for its Holy Week processions, which draws large crowds of locals and visitors alike.

Iglesia San Francisco el Grande, also known as the Church of San Francisco, has a storied history that dates back to the 16th century. Built by the Franciscan Order, the church originally served as a place of worship for the Spanish colonizers. Over the years, it has withstood numerous earthquakes and restorations, testifying to the resilience of Antigua’s architectural treasures.