Background

Cooperación Española: A Cultural Oasis in Antigua

Explore the vibrant cultural exchange between Spain and Guatemala in a beautifully restored colonial setting. Open daily, free entry to exhibitions.

4.8

The Cooperación Española in Antigua Guatemala is a cultural center housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, once part of the Jesuit School founded in 1582. It promotes cultural exchange between Spain and Guatemala through art exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and a specialized library.

A brief summary to Cooperación Española

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Cooperación Española's website or social media pages for the latest schedule of events and exhibitions.
  • Visit the library to explore its extensive collection of Spanish and Latin American literature.
  • Take your time to wander through the beautiful courtyards and admire the colonial architecture.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cooperación Española is located on 6a Avenida Norte, a short walk from Antigua's Parque Central. From the Parque Central, walk north on 5a Avenida Norte. Turn left onto 4a Calle Poniente, then turn right onto 6a Avenida Norte. The Cooperación Española will be on your left. 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 the Cooperación Española. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical ride from Parque Central to the Cooperación Española should cost around 15-20 GTQ.

Unlock the Best of Cooperación Española

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cooperación Española

The Centro de Formación de la Cooperación Española in Antigua Guatemala, is more than just a cultural center; it's a vibrant testament to the enduring historical and cultural ties between Spain and Guatemala. Located in the heart of Antigua, at 6a Avenida Norte, the center occupies the meticulously restored buildings of the former Colegio de la Compañía de Jesús, a Jesuit school founded in 1582. For nearly two centuries, the Colegio played a pivotal role as a cultural and educational hub, teaching philosophy, philology and rhetoric, until the expulsion of the Jesuit order in 1767. The devastating earthquakes of 1773 further damaged the structure, leading to Antigua's partial abandonment. Over the years, the ruins served as a textile factory, a school, and even a market, before being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. In 1992, Spain committed to restoring the site through the Spanish Agency for International Development (AECID). The center now hosts a wide array of cultural activities, including art exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and workshops. Its library boasts a specialized collection of Spanish and Latin American literature, making it a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike. The Cooperación Española stands as a symbol of renewed Spanish-Guatemalan ties, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of both nations.

Popular Experiences near Cooperación Española

Popular Hotels near Cooperación Española

Select Currency