Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is just a 1–2 hour drive from Guatemala City.
It was once the capital of Guatemala.
The colonial architecture of Antigua, combined with the distant view of Volcán de Agua, creates a truly captivating cityscape.
Since it's a small town, take your time to explore it on foot.
You're sure to be moved by the charm of its streets.
The atmosphere of the Spanish colonial era remains vividly intact.
Like other historic districts in South America, the town features colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
On top of that, Volcán de Agua adds even more beauty to the scenery.
Its compact size and well-preserved layout,
along with the clarity of its historical landscape,
are what set Antigua apart from other historic districts across South America.
The cream-yellow exterior walls are adorned with white stucco decorations,
creating a striking contrast against the blue sky.
Within the church grounds, ruins left by past earthquakes have been preserved, offering a powerful sense of history.
It was the last convent built in Antigua and is registered as part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage designation.
The site retains traces of its original form, allowing visitors to feel the weight of the history that has endured here for centuries.
It was once the largest monastery in Antigua.
The devastation caused by a major earthquake left it in its current ruined state.
Though now a ruin, its grandeur still lingers,
and there's something mysteriously captivating about its atmosphere.
Cerro de la Cruz is one of the most famous tourist spots in Antigua.
From the top of the hill, you can take in a breathtaking view of the entire city of Antigua,
with the majestic Volcán de Agua rising in the background.
On a clear day when the summit is fully visible, you're sure to witness an unforgettable panorama.
When I visited, there were a few clouds around the peak, but the view was still absolutely moving.
