Catedral Metropolitana

Guatemala City


Facing Parque Central, this cathedral was constructed between 1782 and 1815 (the towers were finished in 1867). It has survived earthquake and fire, though the earthquakes of 1917 and 1976 did substantial damage. Its heavy proportions and sparse ornamentation don't make for a particularly beautiful building, but it has a certain stateliness, and the altars are worth a look.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Guatemala City attractions

1. Parque Central

0.08 MILES

Guatemala City's central plaza is an excellent starting point from which to begin your journey to other Zona 1 sights. Parque Central and the adjoining…

2. Palacio Nacional de la Cultura

0.1 MILES

On the north side of Parque Central is this imposing presidential palace, which was built between 1936 and 1943 during the dictatorial rule of General…

3. Museo Nacional de Historia

0.19 MILES

This museum hosts a jumble of historical relics with an emphasis on photography and portraits. Check out the carefully coiffed hairstyles of the 19th…

4. Centro Cultural Metropolitano

0.3 MILES

To the rear of the ground floor of the palacio de correos (post office), you'll find a surprisingly avant-garde cultural center, hosting art exhibitions,…

5. Casa MIMA

0.5 MILES

A wonderfully presented museum and cultural center set in a house dating from the late 19th century. The owners of the house were collectors with eclectic…

6. Museo del Ferrocarril

0.81 MILES

This is one of the city's more intriguing museums, with lots of photos and interesting memorabilia from the train days of old. Documented here are the…

8. Banco de Guatemala

1 MILES

It's interesting to visit this bank building, which bears relief sculptures by Dagoberto Vásquez depicting his country's history.