Antigua Guatemala: Soothe Your Body, Mind and Soul

Antigua the old capital of Guatemala...

First founded in 1543, Antigua once served as the Spanish colonial government's capital of the "Kingdom of Guatemala." This kingdom extended far beyond the present-day borders, and reached into southern Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. By 1773, this amazing, tenacious city had flourished. In addition the main Cathedral and the government palace, 18th century Antigua could also boast of over 30 churches, 18 convents and monasteries, 15 hermitages, 10 chapels, the University of San Carlos, 5 hospitals, and an orphanage, as well as fountains & parks and city water and sewage.

Destruction and Desertion...

However, despite the city's fame and beauty, even it could not defy the power of Mother Nature. Surrounded by a total of three volcanoes, Agua, Fuego and Acatenango, from its very inception, Antigua has been plagued by earthquakes and the resulting devastation. Prior to 1773, the government and citizens had always been able to rebuild the town, bigger and better than it had been before, but that year everything changed.

On July 29, 1773, the city was rocked and torn by the Santa Marta earthquake which left behind a nearly apocalyptic destruction. With the permission of the King of France (and the opposition of the local clergy) the government officials took it upon themselves to change the capital to Guatemala City. What had once been the third largest city of the New World was left abandoned - but not for long.

New Beginnings...

Today, Antigua is one of the chief tourist destinations - and for good reason too! As you step into the city, surrounded by ruins blanketed with a cover of bougainvillea and its historical Spanish colonial buildings and mansions that have been both preserved and restored, it almost seems as though time stopped here over three hundred years ago. With the Captain's Palace, the Palace of the Noble City Hall and other architectural wonders, Antigua is the balm to sooth the tired and weary body, mind and soul.

Restore Your Body...

Nearly all vacations are taken in the hope of relaxation and refreshment. We all love to be pampered, and most of us are eager to get out there and do something. When it comes to bodily relaxation and restoration, Antigua won't leave you disappointed. During your stay at one of Antigua's beautiful hotels or resorts, here are a few destinations you won't want to miss:

• Yoga. Join Yoga masters like Rae Ishee all throughout the year for a chance to strengthen your body and align your mind & spirit. There are classes available for all levels of experience, from beginners to experts, and drop-ins are welcomed.
• If you're weary, stressed or sore from your travels, look toward the local stress and relaxation spas. Here you can find the relief you need. You can chose from treatments such as luxurious facials, relaxing mud wraps and various massage techniques, including reflexology.

Enrich Your Mind...

Antigua is one of the leading cultural centers for Spanish studies and offers some of the best Spanish schools in Guatemala. Whether you are seeking to enroll or simply explore the campus, there are several local educational centers that might tickle your fancy. You can choose from breathtakingly beautiful 5 star schools with top notch service and learning. Some are even willing to arrange to meet you at your home or hotel to take you to the campus. Yet others are gorgeous colonial campuses - serious learning institutions that has been built on experience, professionalism and proven educational methods.

Nourish Your Spirit...

One of the first things you'll notice as you explore all that Antigua has to offer is the multitude of churches that freckle the landscape. The religious history of Antigua has been so fundamental to its birth and constant renewal. There is peace to be found in its many cathedrals, chapels, convents and monasteries. There is no way you can visit Antigua without immersing yourself in the rich splendor and comfort provided by the Holy Church. Here are a few destinations and events you should work into your itinerary:

• Perhaps the most amazing display of religious fervor and supplication to be found in Central America is Antigua's Holy Week celebration. Huge processions wind there way down the streets and avenues, on giant floats bearing the image of Christ and His cross. As the procession marches along, their feet fall upon intricate and delicate sawdust carpets, fashioned of vibrant, colorful flowers - which are destroyed in the process. If you're looking for a spiritual awakening, the Holy Week festival is where it can surely be found.
• During the rest of the year, you can nourish your soul at the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Antigua. Inside, you'll find several beautiful retable and religious images. Near the main entrance there are spectacular stucco high reliefs dating from the later 17th century. The Cathedral also offers a glimpse into the past via its historic cemetery, where the bones of the past conquerors and notables lie cradled beneath the earth. On the northern section of the Cathedral's ruins you can also view the Archbishop's Palace.

Markets, restaurants and more...

These aren't by any means the only wonders and treasures that Antigua has to offer. You can also find wonderful old-world style markets, fantastic restaurants, and exciting entertainment venues. If you wish to journey back to times long forgotten, and walk along the old cobblestone streets, there's no better place to do it than Antigua Guatemala.

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