Antigua, Guatemala contains a fascinating mixture of Spanish and Mayan culture. From the moment you arrive in Antigua, you will see the juxtaposition of women wearing their traditional Mayan clothing with modern new amenities and colonial architecture. The Spanish first arrived in Antigua in 1524 and in 1543 Antigua became the capital of the Spanish colonial holding of Guatemala. From Antigua, the Spanish controlled far beyond the current borders of Guatemala and into the surrounding countries including present-day Honduras, El Salvador, Belize, and Southern Mexico. Antigua was the economic, political, educational, and religious hub during this time. 

Much of Antigua’s current architecture and charm comes from this time period. The cobblestone streets and grid-style planning surrounding a central park (Parque Central) are hallmarks of the Spanish’s influence during the construction of the city.