Antigua is one of Guatemala’s most magnificent cities.

Antigua is a specimen of Seismic Baroque Architecture, a tectonic-dictated stylistic necessity rather than mere aesthetic aspiration.

Located in the Panchoy Valley, the city is framed by the iconic volcanoes of Agua, Acatenango, and Fuego, the latter being one of the most active volcanoes in Central America.

A splendid example of colonial urbanism, Antigua follows a Hippodamian plan with streets intersecting at right angles around a central plaza.

Although unfortunately prone to earthquakes, the city still preserves magnificent buildings with panache, notably the Saint Joseph Cathedral which particularly impressed me.

(Pictures: TXD, 2022)