Guatemala City

Although discovered by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, the western part of modern Guatemala City was once Kaminaljuyú, an ancient Maya city that was one of the first and most important areas in the Maya region. The people of Kaminaljuyú first occupied the area between 1200-1000 BC and continued to inhabit it for 2,000 years before abandoning it. 

When the Spanish arrived, all that remained of the once great city were overgrown mounds. After an earthquake in 1773 caused considerable damage to the colonial capital Antigua, the king of Spain signed a royal charter thus establishing Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción as the new capital. In 1821, Guatemala City was the scene of Central America’s declaration of independence from Spain.

Metropolitan Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral contains colonial art transported from the ancient capital of Guatemala, now Antigua. In the central nave are fourteen works of art painted by the 17th Century Mexican artist Pedro Ramirez. There are also statues of European saints and Kings. One interesting aspect is the 12 pillars in front of the cathedral, they are a tribute to the murders and the disappearance of thousands of victims during the civil war which took place between 1960 and 1966.

Guatemalan National Theatre

The Guatemalan National Theatre was designed in the shape of the volcanoes which surround Guatemala City. It has excellent acoustics and offers a wide range of concerts and events. The design and architecture of the theatre were inspired by the Mayan culture. 

Museo Popol Vuh

The Museo Popol Vuh is a modern museum which documents different stages of Guatemalan culture and history. Although small, it still houses intricate displays of pre-Hispanic figurines, carved wooden masks, burial urns, traditional textiles, and other archaeological Mayan artefacts. The museum also contains colonial paintings. 

Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing

The Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing has an outstanding collection of Guatemalan textiles. The exhibits include a varied collection of indigenous dresses, crafts and photographs reflecting the richness of traditional Mayan culture. This well-designed museum also features an art gallery.