San Francisco the Great Sanctuary: A Spiritual and Historical Landmark
Discover Antigua's spiritual heart at San Francisco the Great Sanctuary, a historic church with stunning architecture and serene gardens.
San Francisco the Great Sanctuary, located in Antigua Guatemala, is a captivating Catholic church with significant historical and architectural importance. Established in the 16th century, the sanctuary showcases the city's colonial past and religious heritage. Its baroque-style facade, serene atmosphere, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to San Francisco the Great Sanctuary
- H73C+H7C, 7a Calle Oriente, Antigua Guatemala, GT
- +50278824439
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more contemplative experience and better lighting for photography.
- Be respectful of the religious significance of the site; dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor inside the church.
- Explore the gardens surrounding the sanctuary for a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets.
- Check for local cultural events or religious ceremonies that may be taking place in the gardens for a richer experience.
Getting There
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Walking
San Francisco the Great Sanctuary is located in central Antigua, easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. From the Parque Central, walk east along 5a Calle Oriente, then turn right onto 7a Calle Oriente. The sanctuary will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Local 'chicken buses' connect Antigua with nearby towns and Guatemala City. From the bus terminal, you can either walk to San Francisco the Great Sanctuary or take a tuk-tuk for a short ride. The sanctuary is a short distance from the main bus terminal. A tuk-tuk ride should cost around Q10-Q15. Bus fares from Guatemala City to Antigua range from Q10-Q60.
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Taxi
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available in Antigua. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to San Francisco the Great Sanctuary should cost approximately Q27.50, with an additional Q5 per kilometer. Negotiate the fare before hopping on to avoid surprises.
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