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Iglesia de la Merced: Antigua's Baroque Masterpiece

Discover Antigua's iconic Iglesia de la Merced: a masterpiece of Guatemalan Baroque architecture and enduring historical significance.

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The Iglesia de la Merced, with its iconic yellow facade and elaborate Baroque design, stands as one of Antigua's most recognizable and historically significant landmarks. Completed in 1767, the church showcases a blend of colonial and indigenous influences, enduring earthquakes and cultural shifts to remain a captivating testament to Antigua's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Iglesia de la Merced

  • H768+F3X &, 1a Calle Poniente, Antigua Guatemala, GT
  • +50278320559

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Explore the church's interior to admire the stunning altarpieces, intricate woodwork, and religious artwork.
  • Check the schedule for local events or masses to experience the cultural vibrancy of the church.
  • Take a stroll around the surrounding area to discover local shops and artisan crafts.
  • Dress modestly, as this is an active place of worship.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Antigua's central park, walk 1 block west. Turn right onto 1a Calle Poniente. Continue for 5 blocks. Iglesia de la Merced will be on your right. Walking is the best way to navigate the cobblestone streets of Antigua.

  • Tuk-tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Antigua and offer a quick way to reach Iglesia de la Merced. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip; a short ride from the city center should cost around 15-20 GTQ. Ensure you have local currency for payment.

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Discover more about Iglesia de la Merced

The Iglesia de la Merced is one of Antigua Guatemala's most iconic and photographed churches, celebrated for its stunning Guatemalan Baroque architecture and historical significance. The Mercedarians, a Catholic order with origins in 13th-century Barcelona, commissioned the church, which was completed in 1767 by architect Juan de Dios Estrada. Estrada designed the structure to withstand seismic activity, a necessity in this earthquake-prone region, using techniques such as minimizing height, thickening walls, and adding buttresses. The bright yellow facade is adorned with ornate plasterwork, called "ataurique," and sculptures of Mercedarian saints. Above, a sculpture of San Pedro Nolasco, founder of the Mercedarian Order, is displayed. Below him is the Virgin of Mercy and the Mercedarian shield. Stucco and brick sculptures of San Ramón Nonato and San Pedro Armengol are found on the left side of the facade, while St. Peter Pascual and Santa María de Cervelló are on the right. The church's bell towers offer panoramic views of the city. Inside, visitors can admire stunning altarpieces, intricate woodwork, and religious artwork. One interesting fact about La Merced Church is that it is home to a crystal cross, known as the "Cristo de la Conquista" (Christ of the Conquest). This cross is believed to have been brought by the Spanish conquerors in the 16th century. To the side of the church are the atmospheric ruins of the Convento La Merced. The views from the rooftop alone justify the modest entrance fee. The fountain of the convent, with 27 meters in diameter, is considered one of the largest in Spanish America and has its shape of aquatic lily, symbol of creation according to the Mayan tradition.

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