Antigua Guatemala Cathedral, Catholic cathedral in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala Cathedral is a cathedral in Antigua Guatemala that spans an entire city block with a massive stone facade. The front wall displays 12 large pillars and ornate baroque details in white stucco, while inside, some sections remain intact while others show damage.
Construction started in 1542 and the building was rebuilt several times following earthquakes until a major earthquake in 1773 partially destroyed it. This disaster changed Antigua Guatemala significantly and left the cathedral in its fragmented state.
The cathedral's name reflects the Spanish colonial heritage that shaped the city's religious architecture. The remaining functional spaces are still used for worship, showing how locals have kept this place alive in their everyday lives.
Visitors can explore the ruins daily, and it is best to wear sturdy shoes as the ground is uneven and can be slippery in places. A flashlight helps when looking at darker interior areas and the tunnels beneath.
Beneath the foundations lies a network of tunnels and burial chambers, including the tomb of conquistador Pedro de Alvarado, offering visitors direct access to this hidden layer. These underground spaces reveal the layered history of burial practices and colonial architecture.
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