Guatemala Colonial History
Guatemala's colonial history is present in the architecture that still stands today. Guatemala's colonization occurred in the 16th century, when Spanish conquistadors first arrived; the nation remained under Spanish control for several hundred years. Thankfully, this disturbance in the country's timeline did not lead to the destruction of all of its indigenous ruins. Instead, the country has an interesting mix of ancient, colonial, and modern structures.
During Guatemala's colonial period, the Spanish built many long-lasting structures, including cathedrals, convents, and houses — many of them still stand today. In Guatemala's colonial cities, you will enjoy a tranquil and almost genteel atmosphere. Charming streets are often paved with cobblestones and lined with cute cafés. Guatemala's colonial destinations are good places for cultural enthusiasts, history buffs, and aficionados of architecture and design.
7 Guatemala Colonial History
The places our local insiders recommend most come first.
Antigua
The charming city of La Antigua is situated in a lush highland valley and surrounded by the cones of three volcanoes. As its name implies (Antigua means old in Spanish), this is a historic city. It was the former capital of Guatemala until an earthquake destroyed it in 1773. Following this disaster, the capital was moved to its current site at Guatemala City, but the ruins (and some of the people) of Antigua stayed put. These days, Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s foremost tourist destinations.
Destination
Guatemala City
Guatemala City is often a traveler’s first glimpse of Guatemala. As your plane descends over the capital, you witness the largest city in Central America unfold—a sprawling, colorful metropolis that spreads into a valley ringed by forested mountains and volcanoes. It’s a big and powerful place that is home to around four million people.

Destination
Cobán, Alta Verapaz
The misty alpine town of Cobán sits within the highlands of Las Verapaces. This moderately sized town (pop. 65,000) is close to several natural attractions and has good hotel and restaurant options.

Destination
Quetzaltenango
Guatemala’s second largest city, Quetzaltenango (pop. 300,000), is a world apart from Guatemala City. It’s a cosmopolitan place set at an altitude of 8,000 feet (2,400 m) and is the main population center for Guatemala’s K’iche’ Mayans. Despite being a fairly big city, its residents are friendly and approachable. Quetzaltenango’s original K’iche’ name of "Xelajú" is still widely used in an abbreviated form, Xela, today.

Destination
Retalhuleu
Retalhuleu is one of the larger towns along Guatemala’s Pacific Slope. It’s been growing in recent years thanks to its proximity to population attractions, including twin amusement parks and the Mayan ruins of Takalik Abaj.

Destination
Ciudad Vieja
Ciudad Vieja was Guatemala’s second colonial capital. Its destruction by mudflows from the Agua Volcano in 1541 caused residents to move the capital to Antigua. These days it’s a small and sleepy city.

Destination
Lake Izabal
Lake Izabal is the largest lake in Guatemala. It’s still largely undeveloped, but that may change in the coming years as word gets out about its natural beauty and tranquil vibes.

Destination
Guatemala Colonial History itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Guatemala Colonial History itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
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