Antigua is the Capital City of the Department of Sacatepéquez and is about forty-five minutes from the Capital City of Guatemala. It was founded on March 10, 1543 by Francisco de la Cueva. Antigua has suffered various earthquakes since its' foundation. In 1773 it was semi-destroyed but rebuilt again. The last major earthquake that struck Antigua was on February 4, 1976. In 1979, this city was recognized as a "Cultural Heritage of Mankind" by the UNESCO. This beautiful city still conserves the colonial architecture of the past. Antigua has numerous hotels and restaurants that will facilitate your exploration of the city. There are many Spanish language schools, for those interested in learning another language. It is a visit that you will not forget!
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Date this page was last updated: 08/01/2003