La Merced Church
Sacatepéquez
The Church and Convent of La Merced is a prominent Catholic church located in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala. Constructed under the guidance of architect Juan de Dios Estrada starting in 1749 and dedicated in 1767, it exemplifies the Guatemalan Churrigueresque style, characterized by elaborate stucco and brick sculptures. The church features two bell towers and a façade adorned with sculptures of key Mercedarian figures such as St. Peter Nolasco, the order's founder, the Virgin of Mercy, and saints including St. Raymond Nonnatus and St. Pedro Armengol. One of its most remarkable features is the 18th-century Fountain of los Pescados, a large colonial water lily-shaped fountain symbolizing creation in ancient Mayan culture. The church has historical significance as the Mercedarian order was among the first to settle and evangelize in Guatemala, with the convent playing a central role in religious and social development in the region. The building survived the devastating 1773 Santa Marta earthquakes due to advanced construction techniques of the time, preserving its rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Plan your trip to Guatemala with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit La Merced Church is during the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Consider purchasing tickets or joining guided tours in advance, especially during local festivals or Holy Week when the church is a focal point of celebrations. Visitors can often find discounts for students and seniors. Photography is allowed, so bring a camera to capture the intricate façade and the impressive Fountain of los Pescados. Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding area of Antigua Guatemala is best explored on foot.
Interesting facts
- •The Fountain of los Pescados at La Merced is one of the largest colonial fountains in Latin America, measuring 27 meters in diameter.
- •The fountain is shaped like a water lily, a flower symbolically linked to creation myths in ancient Mayan culture.
- •The church's façade features sculptures of key Mercedarian saints, including St. Peter Nolasco, St. Raymond Nonnatus, and St. Pedro Armengol.
- •La Merced Church survived the 1773 Santa Marta earthquakes due to advanced construction techniques used during its building.
- •The Mercedarian order was one of the first religious groups to evangelize and settle in Guatemala, with their province including regions beyond Guatemala, such as Honduras and Nicaragua.
History
The Mercedarian order established its presence in Guatemala in the mid-16th century, initially settling in the Almolonga Valley before relocating to the Panchoy Valley after a volcanic landslide.
The province of Our Lady of Mercy of Guatemala was founded in 1561, encompassing a wide region including Guatemala and parts of Central America.
The construction of the current La Merced Church began in 1749, funded in part by Captain General Alonso Fernández de Heredia, and was dedicated in 1767.
The church notably withstood the 1773 Santa Marta earthquakes, preserving its structure and artistic details.
In 1754, as part of the Bourbon Reforms, parishes managed by regular orders like the Mercedarians were transferred to secular clergy, marking a significant ecclesiastical shift.
Place Guide
Main Façade1767
The church's façade is richly decorated with stucco and brick sculptures of Mercedarian saints and symbols, including a sculpture of St. Peter Nolasco at the top, the Virgin of Mercy below, and the Mercedarian shield. The left side shows St. Raymond Nonnatus and St. Pedro Armengol, while the right side features St. Peter Pascual and St. Mary de Cervellione.
Fountain of los Pescados18th century
An 18th-century colonial fountain shaped like a water lily, measuring 27 meters in diameter. It is one of the largest colonial fountains in Latin America and symbolizes creation according to ancient Mayan beliefs, where a god created a water lily from which other gods emerged.
Contact
Phone: 7832 0559
