Antigua, Guatemala -Earthquakes and Ruins
Previously known as Santiago de Guatemala, Antigua has been subjected to a number of natural disasters throughout history, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Established in 1543, it served as the capital of Guatemala for 230 years, until much of the town was destroyed by a cataclysmic earthquake in 1773. At that point, Spanish authorities ordered the relocation of the capital to present-day Guatemala City.
During the three centuries Antigua served as the country's political and religious center, many impressive monuments were erected. Following the earthquake, and as a result of the relocation and subsequent abandonment of most of the population, a significant number of ruins were preserved.
San Jose Cathedral
Originally constructed in 1545, this cathedral was once the most spectacular colonial building in Central America. It boasted a vast dome, eighteen chapels, and an altar inlaid with mother-of-pearl and silver. A small portion of the church was restored and is in use today, the remainder is in ruins.
San Jose Cathedral
Yes, I went down these narrow, stone-lined stairs in the ruins. It led to a small, dark burial vault with a stone engraving of Christ on the Cross.
The Royal Palace of the Capitanes Generales
Once part of the Royal Palace, these ruins are visible from the rear of the National Museum of Art Guatemala (here).
Templo de la Recolección
This former church and monastery, which once included a library and infirmary, was severely damaged by the earthquakes of 1717 (which occurred shortly after it was inaugurated) and 1751. Man-made destruction has further demolished the site, which was abandoned after the devastating earthquake of 1773.
Templo de la Recolección
The huge, thick walls did not survive the earthquake, an indication of how massive it was.
Convento La Merced
These ruins were once part of the church Iglesia La Merced (here). Built in 1767, the convent was severely damaged by the earthquake of 1773, and never rebuilt.
Convento La Merced Fountain
The enormous fountain is considered the largest in Latin America. I included myself in this picture to provide a sense of scale.
Convento Las Capuchinas
This convent, built in 1736, was unique in many ways. It was built to resist earthquakes and as a result, is one of the best preserved ruins in Antigua. Even though it did not suffer critical damage in 1773, the order moved to the new capital, now Guatemala City.
Las Capuchinas
The convent’s eighteen rooms, which featured private bathrooms and study areas, were built in a circular pattern around a central patio.
San Jeronimo Hermitage
This site housed a vaulted chapel, a school, and finally, the Royal Customs House in 1765 before succombing to the 1773 earthquake. Today, visitors can climb intact staircases to the second floor, for magnificent views of the courtyard and the Agua Volcano.