San Francisco the Great Sanctuary: A Spiritual and Historical Haven
Discover the historical and architectural beauty of San Francisco the Great Sanctuary, a serene spiritual haven in Antigua Guatemala.
San Francisco the Great Sanctuary, located in Antigua Guatemala, is a captivating Catholic church with historical and architectural significance. Established in the 16th century, its baroque facade and serene gardens offer a peaceful escape. The sanctuary is home to the shrine of Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur, the first saint of Central America.
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 on a weekday for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
- Be respectful of the religious setting; dress modestly when entering the church.
- Most informational signs are in Spanish, so consider using a translation app or guidebook.
- Explore the gardens for a peaceful escape from the city.
- Check out the burial crypts inside the church.
Getting There
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Walking
San Francisco the Great Sanctuary is located at 7a Calle Oriente in Antigua. From Antigua's central park, walk east along 5a Calle Oriente, then turn left onto 1a Avenida Sur. Walk two blocks, then turn right onto 7a Calle Oriente. The sanctuary will be on your left. This is a straightforward and free way to reach the sanctuary.
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Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Antigua. A ride from the central park to San Francisco the Great Sanctuary typically costs Q10-Q15. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
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Public Transport
From other towns in the Western Highlands, take a 'chicken bus' to Antigua. Fares vary (Q10-Q20) depending on the distance. Once in Antigua, you can walk to the Sanctuary or take a tuk-tuk for Q10-Q15.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Iglesia Escuela de Cristo
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Guatemala Tourism Board - Tourist Information
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Museo de Arte Colonial
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La Casa del Ron
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Jades Tikal
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Fat Cat Coffee House
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Ruinas de La Antigua Catedral Metropolitana de Santiago de Los Caballeros de Guatemala.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Convento Santa Clara
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Tanque La Unión
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Holy Week Museum
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San José Cathedral Antigua
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Casa del Jade
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Palacio del Ayuntamiento
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Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala
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Paseo de los Museos
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El Carmen
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Essential places to dine
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La Bruja
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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