Iglesia San José El Viejo: A Ruin with a Romantic Past
Explore the romantic ruins of Iglesia San José El Viejo in Antigua, Guatemala, a historic church turned captivating wedding venue.
Iglesia San José El Viejo in Antigua, Guatemala, is a captivating ruin of a former Catholic church, its weathered stone walls and crumbling arches whispering tales of history and romance. Completed in 1762, it tragically suffered severe damage just eleven years later in the 1773 earthquake, leading to its abandonment. Today, it's a popular wedding venue, blending history and romance amidst its remnants.
A brief summary to Iglesia San José El Viejo
- H738+768, Antigua Guatemala, GT
- +50278323028
Local tips
- Visit during the quieter times of the day to enjoy a peaceful ambiance and avoid crowds.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning backdrop of the church ruins against Antigua's dramatic landscape.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions to create a comprehensive experience of Antigua's historical landscape.
Getting There
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Walking
Iglesia San José El Viejo is located on 5a Avenida Sur in Antigua, easily accessible from the city's central points. From the Parque Central, walk south on 5a Avenida Sur for approximately 5 blocks. The church ruins will be on your left. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye out for the Esquisúchil tree in the garden, planted in honor of Santo Hermano Pedro de Betancourt.
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Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Antigua and offer a quick way to reach Iglesia San José El Viejo. Negotiate the fare before starting your ride; a typical fare from Parque Central should be around 15-20 GTQ. The ride is short, usually no more than 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Taxi
Taxis can be found at designated taxi stands or hailed on the street. From a location further from the city center, such as near the Santa Catalina Arch, a taxi ride to Iglesia San José El Viejo would cost approximately 53 GTQ. Ensure the driver knows the location, as there are many churches in Antigua.
Discover more about Iglesia San José El Viejo
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