Alright, alright, alright. Here we are at the Hill of the Cross (Cerro de La Cruz) in Antigua, Guatemala, a town ripe with history, culture, and energy. It's time to lace up those boots, grab a beer, and join me for a walk through this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.
First things first, let's take a look at the view from up here. The city sprawls below like a twisted labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant colors beneath four towering volcanoes. Including the imposing Vulcan de Agua and the active Vulcan de Fuego. You can almost smell the scent of adventure in the air.
It's a special time to visit. Yesterday was Palm Sunday. Which kicked off the week of Semana Santa or Holy Week. And Semana Santa in Antigua Guatemala is spectacular.
Now, it's time to hit the streets. We will start by making our way down to Plaza Mayor, the pulsating heart of this city. Along the way, you'll see vendors selling everything from street food to handicrafts, locals going about their daily business, and many tourists trying to capture the magic of this place with their cameras.
You'll see the elaborate alfombras, aka carpets, that line the streets of Antigua; only to be destroyed later by the Semanta Santa processions.
As we arrive at the Plaza Mayor, take a deep breath and let the chaos wash over you. This is the perfect spot for people-watching, and there's no shortage of characters to entertain you.
From there, we will explore the underground ruins of Cathedral San Jose. Then our journey continues into the back alleys, to the outskirts of town where we'll see the Convento Santa Clara, Church San Pedro Apóstol, and Colegio Compañia de Jesús ruins.
Next, we'll stroll down Calle del Arco, one of the most iconic streets in Antigua. The Arch de Santa Catalina, giving the street its name, is a stunning example of colonial architecture.
The road is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Let's keep our eyes peeled for the hidden courtyards and gardens behind the facades.
Finally, we'll end our tour at the Convento de La Merced, one of Antigua's most important historical sites. We'll enjoy some local fare whipped up by one of the many food carts in the courtyard. Take a moment to soak up this place's history and beauty before we wrap up our tour.
And there you have it, folks. A walking tour of Antigua, Guatemala, will take you through history, culture, and the wild side.
Until next time, stay curious, and always keep your eyes peeled for the next adventure.
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