Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala is a former capital in Sacatepéquez Department, Guatemala, sitting on the slopes of the Panchoy Valley at around 1520 meters elevation. Three volcano cones surround the valley and remain visible from almost every point in town, especially in the morning or evening when the light traces their silhouettes clearly.

Founded in 1543 under the name Santiago de los Caballeros after a mudslide destroyed the second capital, the city grew over the following centuries. After earthquakes in 1773, authorities moved the seat of government to present-day Guatemala City, though many residents stayed among the ruins and gradually rebuilt the town.

The name means Old Guatemala, showing how residents still distinguish the former capital from the current one. Many streets bear names recalling religious practices and buildings that visitors still walk past today, such as Calle del Arco and Calle de los Pasos.

Most travelers reach the town by shuttle or bus from the international airport in Guatemala City, taking between 45 and 90 minutes depending on traffic. The center can be explored on foot, as the main sights lie within a few blocks of Parque Central.

Most buildings do not stand completely upright, as earthquakes brought down parts of walls and vaults, but residents and visitors still use many courtyards and side wings for cafés, workshops, and housing. The street grid follows the original plan from the mid-16th century, so you walk the same paths that people used during colonial times.

Location: Sacatepéquez Department

Inception: 1543

Elevation above the sea: 1,582 m

Part of: Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala, Sacatepéquez Department

Shares border with: San Antonio Aguas Calientes, Magdalena Milpas Altas, Santa Lucía Milpas Altas, Santa María de Jesús, Ciudad Vieja, Jocotenango, Pastores, San Bartolomé Milpas Altas

Address: Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

GPS coordinates: 14.55750,-90.73333

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:04