The cathedral is beautiful but what was more impressive was the evening food stands that appear in the evening. at the plaza in front of the cathedral around 5pm lots of food stands serves food,drinks, tacos, salad etc. A lot of locals were eating and though I did not eat there, the food looked fresh and clean.
La Merced must be on anyone’s list traveling to Antigua. I highly recommend looking up the history of the church before you go. You will get even more from your visit. It would be great to go to a mass at the church, but not necessary. You will always find activity around the church, including street vendors of food day and night, and book vendors during the day. Often, I ate from the vendors, and I never got sick. When you get directions for anyplace in Antigua, people usually reference La Merced. If you plan on traveling to Antigua for any holiday, especially during the Easter season, La Merced will be the place to be.
Self guided. Only takes about 30 minutes if you read all the signs. It's worth the $2 just to understand the effect of the earthquakes here
A beautiful church we a very friendly atmosphere. Although the mass was in Spanish, it was a children's mass and discussed the importance of family. At one point the priest spoke in English and had all Foreign vistitors stand and be thanked by all who attended. We felt very welcomed.
To the side of the church, there is a small entrance to an outdoor area. You climb some steps and then have a view of the volcanos including the smoking Volcan Fuego.
La Merced Church or often called Monasterio La Merced situated at the corner of 6a Ave Norte and 1a Calle Oriente. It is situated at the beginning of the pedestrian street of Antigua. The Church is very active with activities and masses days and nights. It is worth walking into the Church to join one of the masses or to observe activities in side the Church or in front of the Church. Then stroll around the Church ground to see and buy things. At night you can sit and eat at one of the food stalls around the area or go for a block on 6 Avenue to many other small restaurants.
Have to check out museum/ruins portion of La Merced. Amazing architecture and history to see from the 1700's. Get a local guide there if you can to really appreciate the abundance of rich history around you.
La Merced is one of three things that comes to mind when I think about Antigua. I first think about the Arco de Santa Catalina. Next I think about Parque Central. Then I think about the beautiful architecture of La Merced. Hector's is also located across the street.
Worth a visit. Absolutely beautiful old ruins. there is a small admission fee - that is worth every quetzal. the large fountain in the center really is breath taking - especially when viewed from the second floor of the ruins. this is one of the larger ruins - and easy to spend a half hour wandering around. don't miss it.
Left from the entrance of the church you can enter the hidden ancient monastery for only 15Q. Do it and you will see the rests of a beautiful fontain and more. Walk upstairs and see a view from the top.