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Casa Popenoe: A Colonial Gem

Explore a beautifully restored colonial home and step back in time at Casa Popenoe in Antigua Guatemala.

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Step back in time at Casa Popenoe, a beautifully restored 18th-century house in Antigua Guatemala. Once owned by American agricultural explorer F. Wilson Popenoe and his wife Dorothy, the house showcases colonial architecture, period furnishings, and lush gardens, offering a glimpse into the lives of its former residents and the history of Antigua.

A brief summary to Casa Popenoe

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance through the Casa Popenoe website to ensure availability, as tour groups are limited in size.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets and exploring the gardens.
  • Bring local currency (Quetzales) for small purchases and transportation.
  • Note that the house is closed on Mondays, Easter (Holy Week), November 1st, and between Christmas and New Year.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Casa Popenoe is located at 6 Calle Oriente #16, in central Antigua, a few blocks from the Parque Central. From the Parque Central, walk east on 5a Calle Oriente, then turn left onto 1a Avenida Sur. Walk one block, then turn right onto 6a Calle Oriente. Casa Popenoe will be on your right. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Tuk-Tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Antigua and offer a quick way to reach Casa Popenoe. Negotiate the fare before starting your ride. A typical tuk-tuk ride from Parque Central to Casa Popenoe should cost around Q15-Q20. Be sure to have local currency (Quetzales) for payment.

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Discover more about Casa Popenoe

Casa Popenoe, located in Antigua Guatemala, is a meticulously restored colonial residence that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. Built in the 18th century, possibly on the site of even older structures, the house was acquired in 1929 by American agricultural explorer F. Wilson Popenoe and his wife, Dorothy. The Popenoes embarked on an extensive restoration project, transforming the then-ruined building into a showcase of colonial-style architecture. Wilson Popenoe is renowned for his contributions to tropical agriculture, particularly his work with avocados. He introduced the Guatemalan avocado to California, significantly impacting the U.S. avocado industry. Dorothy, a British archaeologist, played a vital role in the restoration and decoration of the house, though she tragically passed away before its completion. Wilson later married Helen Barsaloux, an American art historian, who further contributed to the house's aesthetic appeal. Today, Casa Popenoe is owned and maintained by the Universidad Francisco Marroquín, which preserves the house as a museum and cultural center. Visitors can explore the house's many rooms, courtyards, and gardens, admiring the period furniture, artwork, and artifacts that reflect the colonial era. The house also features a library with over 2,300 books and magazines on botany, agriculture, and Guatemalan history. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the history of the house, the Popenoe family, and the colonial architecture of Antigua. The tours also highlight the architectural elements of the house, such as the wooden ceilings, central courtyard, and decorative furniture. Casa Popenoe stands as a testament to the Popenoes' dedication to preserving cultural heritage and their passion for Central America. It also hosts cultural events and workshops.

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