Colonial Architecture, Antigua Guatemala

Favorite thing: The City Hall surrounded the plaza to the north, the palace of the captaincy to the south, the cathedral and Bishop’s Palace to the east, and on the west by the portal provided shelter for the night to merchants who come to the marketplace from far away towns.
Is central fountain, built in 1739 by the well-known architect Diego de Porres, is one of his many contributions to the city. Using fragments of the original fountain, it was reconstructed in 1936 by the Guatemalan artist Oscar Gonzales Goyri.

Favorite thing: In the old days, this plaza looked quite different from what we see today. There were no trees or central fountain; it wasn’t paved witch stones until 1703 .On weekdays, it served as market place, and on special occasions it was seat of public celebrations, military parades, and even bullfights.
On one side, there used to be a scaffold for public hangings.

Favorite thing: The first level, with short and flat columns, shown a consciousness to construct with earthquakes in mind. It was the second floor, with wood and tile roofs, which suffered the most damage during the earthquake of 1751 and 1773.

Favorite thing: For a nice walk and look at buildings, wander round the streets behind the cathdral on the main square.

This is where the nobility had their houses and although you can't go in many of them (some are shops which you can) you can still see the doorways and decorative details. Really lovely buildings!!

Favorite thing: Loose yourself in this lovely city...Visit the interesting ruins, and get great views of the volcano...What i miss from Antigua is the silence.

Favorite thing: I loved even the walls that were somewhat in disrepair. One of my favorite street corners. Note the cobblestone streets.

Favorite thing: Enjoy the colonial feel of the city. In my opinion, Antigua is enjoyed more as a whole, rather then in parts.