ANTIGUA GUATEMALA, Guatemala — On the northern side of Antigua's Parque Central, the Catedral de Santiago (Cathedral of Santiago) was begun in 1542 but mostly destroyed by the earthquake of 1773,. It was only partially rebuilt after that, mainly the facade of the front facing the park which now houses the Inglesio de San Jose (Church of Saint Joseph). Behind the facade are ruins of the original cathedral.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Catedral de Santiago in Antigua Guatemala stands as a monumental testament to the city's colonial past and religious heritage. Originally constructed in the 16th century and rebuilt several times due to earthquakes, the cathedral's imposing baroque facade dominates the eastern side of Parque Central, the city's main square. The cream-colored stone front, weathered by centuries of sun and rain, features intricate carvings and sculptural details characteristic of Spanish colonial architecture. Twin bell towers flank the central entrance, their sturdy bases giving way to more delicate upper structures, a design intended to withstand seismic activity. While much of the cathedral lies in ruins due to past earthquakes, the front facade and parts of the structure have been preserved and partially restored. This partial preservation creates a striking visual, with the grand front giving way to open sky where the nave once stood, offering visitors a glimpse into the destructive forces that have shaped Antigua's history. The cathedral's presence in Parque Central makes it a focal point of both religious and cultural life in Antigua. Its enduring grandeur, even in partial ruin, serves as a powerful symbol of the city's resilience and the enduring influence of Spanish colonial culture in Guatemala.
Size: 4290px × 2849px
Location: Catedral de Santiago, Antigua Guatemala, Anitgua Guatemala, Guatemala
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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