Antigua Guatemala Cathedral
Sacatepéquez
Antigua Guatemala Cathedral, also known as Catedral de San José, stands as a significant colonial-era religious monument in Antigua Guatemala. Its construction began in 1545 using materials from a previously destroyed settlement in the Almolonga Valley. The cathedral underwent multiple rebuildings due to frequent earthquakes, with major reconstructions completed in 1680 under Juan Pascual and José de Porres, and later repairs after the 1717 earthquake by Diego de Porres. The cathedral was once the seat of the Archdiocese of Santiago de Guatemala and was elevated to metropolitan status in 1743, celebrated with grand festivities. Architecturally, it featured a dome supported by sixteen columns decorated with bronze medallions and adorned with ivory statues of the Virgin Mary and the Apostles. The 1773 Santa Marta earthquake caused severe damage, leading to the transfer of the cathedral functions to Guatemala City in 1779, while the original building remained a historic ruin with crypts and tunnels beneath. The cathedral also housed the remains of conquistador Pedro de Alvarado, which were moved several times before returning in 2007. Today, it remains a cultural and historical landmark reflecting the colonial heritage and seismic challenges of the region.
Plan your trip to Guatemala with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during the dry season from November to April for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to avoid lines. Guided tours provide deeper insight into the cathedral's history and architecture. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Note that some areas may be restricted due to preservation efforts, so check opening hours and accessibility in advance.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's dome was supported by sixteen columns lined with carey and decorated with bronze medallions.
- •Ivory statues of the Virgin Mary and the twelve Apostles adorned the cathedral's cornice.
- •The cathedral housed the remains of Pedro de Alvarado, a notable Spanish conquistador, which were moved multiple times before returning in 2007.
- •The cathedral's festivities for becoming a metropolitan see in 1745 included bullfights, horse races, and indigenous dances lasting over a week.
- •Beneath the cathedral lies a crypt and a set of tunnels whose original purpose remains unknown.
History
The cathedral's initial construction began in 1545 using rubble from a destroyed settlement.
It was rebuilt multiple times due to earthquake damage, with major reconstructions in 1680 and repairs in 1718 after the 1717 earthquake.
Elevated to metropolitan status in 1743, it hosted grand celebrations.
The devastating 1773 Santa Marta earthquake severely damaged the structure, prompting the relocation of the cathedral's functions to Guatemala City in 1779.
The original building was repurposed as a cemetery and preserved as a historic ruin with crypts and tunnels underneath.
Place Guide
Main Altar and Dome1680
The cathedral's main altar was situated beneath a grand dome supported by sixteen elaborately decorated columns. This area was richly adorned with bronze medallions and ivory statues, reflecting the artistic craftsmanship of the colonial period.
Crypt and Tunnels
Beneath the cathedral lies a crypt and an extensive network of tunnels. While the crypt served as a burial place, the exact purpose of the tunnels remains a mystery, adding an element of intrigue to the site.
Archbishop's Palace and Festivities Area1745
Adjacent to the cathedral was the Archbishop's Palace, where grand celebrations were held, including the reception of the pallium in 1745. Festivities included mass, fireworks, bullfights, and indigenous dances lasting several days.
Contact
Phone: 7832 0909
