During your time in Guatemala, you shouldn’t neglect visiting the Historic Center of Guatemala City. After earthquakes brought down La Antigua, this is where the new capital first took root, and there are many sites of historical significance to see, including the cathedral.

The cathedral is situated on the eastern side of Central Park, officially Plaza de la Constitución, in the Historic Center of Guatemala City, near the National Palace of Culture. The neo-classic style building is furnished with baroque style altars and statues, many of which were brought from La Antigua in the 18^th century when the capital was transferred. The cathedral’s solid, squat form was designed to withstand earthquakes, with varying degrees of success. Building began in 1782, and the cathedral was put into use in 1815, although it wasn’t finished. The two bell towers added in 1821 were destroyed in the prolonged earthquakes of 1917-18, when the cupola fell onto the main altar and destroyed it. A new altar of marble and onyx was made in 1964.

Among the masterpieces that you’ll find in the cathedral, look out for Nuestra Señora del Socorro; sculptured in orange wood in 1475, it was brought to Guatemala by the conquistadors in 1523. Standing less than one meter tall, she’s safely behind the wrought iron gates of her chapel. You’ll also find a copy of Quirio Cataño’s Black Christ of Esquipulas, made in bronze in 1968, as well as 17^th century oil paintings in the main nave.

Another interesting feature of the cathedral are the twelve concrete pillars that support the railings around the main atrium. They list the names of the “disappeared” from the civil war, which spanned from 1960 to 1996.

The cathedral is open from 8 AM-7 PM daily and there is no admission fee. Please be respectful during services, and to people praying.

Written by Jane Henwood de García
INGUAT registered tour guide
jane.antigua@gmail.com