ANTIGUA

Antigua was the capital of Spanish Central America from 1542 until it was abandoned in 1776 following a series of devastating earthquakes. Built in a valley under the shadow of three large volcanos, Antigua has been effectively frozen in time since then. The population was ordered to abandon the city and the capital was relocated to what is now Guatemala City, 40kms away. Obviously many people stayed and over time the population grew and the existing buildings were restored for their use. In the 20thC the value of such a “frozen” city was recognised and legislation put into place to retain it as it was. The entire city has been granted UNESCO world heritage status.
 * ANTIGUA**
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It is a wonderful place to wander along the cobble-stoned streets surrounded by 18thC Spanish-style residences and magnificent public buildings. It is very safe town and easy to navigate – it is only 7 blocks by 7 blocks in total.

The hotel we stayed in was absolutely sensational – a restored collection of Spanish-style, Moorish influenced houses turned into a hotel. All of the old rooms surround courtyards with beautiful flowers and bubbling fountains. The original doors and timberwork, with chunky original keys, stimulate a sense of history, as do the windows and shutters – an amazing experience to stay there.
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