Casa 23-Antigua Guidebook

Casandra
Casa 23-Antigua Guidebook

Sightseeing

The Tourist Office (5a Calle Oriente No 11) offers free maps of the Historic District with all the sites that are of the most interest when visiting Antigua. You can go there and sign in to talk to someone about what you are interested in the most and you will be given directions, times various places are open and cost. English is the most common language spoken other than Spanish. You can also drop by just to pick up a free map and a sheet with a short list of important sites. INGUAT can also inform you of important sites outside of Antigua that you may be interested in visiting.
Instituto Guatemalteco de Turismo - INGUAT - (Casa del Turista)
11 5a Calle Oriente
The Tourist Office (5a Calle Oriente No 11) offers free maps of the Historic District with all the sites that are of the most interest when visiting Antigua. You can go there and sign in to talk to someone about what you are interested in the most and you will be given directions, times various places are open and cost. English is the most common language spoken other than Spanish. You can also drop by just to pick up a free map and a sheet with a short list of important sites. INGUAT can also inform you of important sites outside of Antigua that you may be interested in visiting.
This is the most popular street in Antigua and boasts some high end textile shops, jewelry shops and lovely places to have a meal. La Fonda is the local well established restaurant that is located on this street. Here you can savor some traditional Guatemalan Cuisine. Santa Catalina Arch is the landmark of Antigua. Built in 1693, it was once owned by Santa Catalina Convent. Cloistered nuns used a covered walkway (located under the clock), to go between the convent and the convent school across the street without being seen. The convent was destroyed by earthquakes and never restored.
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Arco de Santa Catalina
28 5a Avenida Norte
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This is the most popular street in Antigua and boasts some high end textile shops, jewelry shops and lovely places to have a meal. La Fonda is the local well established restaurant that is located on this street. Here you can savor some traditional Guatemalan Cuisine. Santa Catalina Arch is the landmark of Antigua. Built in 1693, it was once owned by Santa Catalina Convent. Cloistered nuns used a covered walkway (located under the clock), to go between the convent and the convent school across the street without being seen. The convent was destroyed by earthquakes and never restored.
Nearly everyone I have as my personal guest goes to the Handcraft Market. Here you will find all the handcrafts of the area in one place. Note that at Calle del Arco there are also many handcraft places as in most of the Historic District. If you are looking for bargains the smaller places sprinkled throughout the 9 x 9 squire blocks that make up the Historic District may be a better option.
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Artisan market
Poniente
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Nearly everyone I have as my personal guest goes to the Handcraft Market. Here you will find all the handcrafts of the area in one place. Note that at Calle del Arco there are also many handcraft places as in most of the Historic District. If you are looking for bargains the smaller places sprinkled throughout the 9 x 9 squire blocks that make up the Historic District may be a better option.
One of my favorite stores for handmade Jewelry, Crafts and Textiles is MAYA Arte Nativo. They are located towards the end of Calle del Arco near La Merced Church. Address: Calle del Arco #35 Norte Antigua G. The owner is an Indigenous woman (who you will find still wears her traditional clothing as is common for all Guatemalan indigenous women- including those that are highly educated) who spent many years in Boston getting an education and working a local museum. Her English is very good, but it is her firm belief in selling well made products that makes me go to her again and again. Her prices are not the lowest, but also not the highest. The quality is exceptional. One example: I love traditional Guatemalan tablecloths. I have bought many from bargains to more expensive. After one laundry wash at home, they nearly disintegrate. Her tablecloths have lasted me for years and have kept their vibrant colors. Her bead work jewelry is unique and well made. Check out her store, it's packed with many little and big treasures.
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Calle del Arco
21 5a Avenida Norte
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One of my favorite stores for handmade Jewelry, Crafts and Textiles is MAYA Arte Nativo. They are located towards the end of Calle del Arco near La Merced Church. Address: Calle del Arco #35 Norte Antigua G. The owner is an Indigenous woman (who you will find still wears her traditional clothing as is common for all Guatemalan indigenous women- including those that are highly educated) who spent many years in Boston getting an education and working a local museum. Her English is very good, but it is her firm belief in selling well made products that makes me go to her again and again. Her prices are not the lowest, but also not the highest. The quality is exceptional. One example: I love traditional Guatemalan tablecloths. I have bought many from bargains to more expensive. After one laundry wash at home, they nearly disintegrate. Her tablecloths have lasted me for years and have kept their vibrant colors. Her bead work jewelry is unique and well made. Check out her store, it's packed with many little and big treasures.
This is another iconic spot a few blocks away from Casa 23-Antigua. Up to the time I was a teenager, this was still the place where the local indigenous women gathered to do laundry and chat about local events and news. With the introduction of washing machines, Tanque La Union is now a lovely backdrop to take pictures of yourself or those that travel with you.
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Sameiningar Tankur
6a Calle Oriente
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This is another iconic spot a few blocks away from Casa 23-Antigua. Up to the time I was a teenager, this was still the place where the local indigenous women gathered to do laundry and chat about local events and news. With the introduction of washing machines, Tanque La Union is now a lovely backdrop to take pictures of yourself or those that travel with you.
Location: 5 avenida Sur, #12-C. If cycling is your thing, you can book a Bike tour. Old Town Outfitters offers city tours as well as tours in the surrounding area. One of the popular tours takes half a day and takes you through several Mayan Villages. Here you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Panchoy valley (where Antigua is located) through various tracks, trails and dirt roads, and it's culture.
Old Town Outfitters
12 5a Avenida Sur
Location: 5 avenida Sur, #12-C. If cycling is your thing, you can book a Bike tour. Old Town Outfitters offers city tours as well as tours in the surrounding area. One of the popular tours takes half a day and takes you through several Mayan Villages. Here you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Panchoy valley (where Antigua is located) through various tracks, trails and dirt roads, and it's culture.
Jadeite is a specific type of Jade found parts of Guatemala and border of Mexico and also in a specific area of China. The most common color is various shades of green and black (you can see the green in the black jade in the sunlight). More rare are lavender, white and blue. You will find jade jewelry everywhere for sale. However, the quality and the color is not always good. Some places radiate the jade to make it look like the more rare colors. For a fine piece of Jade, in unique styles, Casa del Jade is the place I take my guests. They also have a Jade museum, and you can look in on their workshop area.
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Casa del Jade
10 4a Calle Oriente
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Jadeite is a specific type of Jade found parts of Guatemala and border of Mexico and also in a specific area of China. The most common color is various shades of green and black (you can see the green in the black jade in the sunlight). More rare are lavender, white and blue. You will find jade jewelry everywhere for sale. However, the quality and the color is not always good. Some places radiate the jade to make it look like the more rare colors. For a fine piece of Jade, in unique styles, Casa del Jade is the place I take my guests. They also have a Jade museum, and you can look in on their workshop area.
Some of the best know coffee is grown in the region of Antigua. This coffee plantation is a short ride from the Historic District. Finca Filadelfia has an interesting coffee tour well worth the visit (2 hour tour is $20). Also, you can zip line, horseback ride, paintball, birdwatching, and finish your adventure at their restaurant. Filadelfia runs a shuttle service that picks up at Central Park.Its available 5 times a day and free of cost. Or you can UBER there. Check out their Facebook page for contact info and other activities that are offered on site. Tel: 502-7728-0800
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Finca Filadelfia
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Some of the best know coffee is grown in the region of Antigua. This coffee plantation is a short ride from the Historic District. Finca Filadelfia has an interesting coffee tour well worth the visit (2 hour tour is $20). Also, you can zip line, horseback ride, paintball, birdwatching, and finish your adventure at their restaurant. Filadelfia runs a shuttle service that picks up at Central Park.Its available 5 times a day and free of cost. Or you can UBER there. Check out their Facebook page for contact info and other activities that are offered on site. Tel: 502-7728-0800
If you are in the mood for a Spa Day, head to one of the oldest luxury hotels in Antigua. Hotel Porta Antigua is two blocks from Casa 23-Antigua. The hotel offers a day package that gives you access to their beautiful tropical swimming pool, changing room and showers and a lunch. Look for the reception desk (past a colonial fountain) and ask for the pool package.
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Porta Hotel Antigua
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If you are in the mood for a Spa Day, head to one of the oldest luxury hotels in Antigua. Hotel Porta Antigua is two blocks from Casa 23-Antigua. The hotel offers a day package that gives you access to their beautiful tropical swimming pool, changing room and showers and a lunch. Look for the reception desk (past a colonial fountain) and ask for the pool package.

Food Scene

Antigua boast many wonderful restaurants that serve cuisine from across the world. French, Indian, Italian, Argentinian beef, Chinese. Every time I visit I find something new for the pallet. La Fonda (as most locals call it), is the one place to get a taste of Guatemalan cuisine. I take my own guests there because the one question I always seem to get is "where do I go for a taste of the local cuisine?". La Fonda does not disappoint.
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La Fonda de la Calle Real
12 5a Avenida Norte
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Antigua boast many wonderful restaurants that serve cuisine from across the world. French, Indian, Italian, Argentinian beef, Chinese. Every time I visit I find something new for the pallet. La Fonda (as most locals call it), is the one place to get a taste of Guatemalan cuisine. I take my own guests there because the one question I always seem to get is "where do I go for a taste of the local cuisine?". La Fonda does not disappoint.
This is one of my favorite places to eat. Located 3a Avenida Sur No 1. The staff is friendly and efficient. The open garden setting is beautiful, open and airy. The owners are awesome, the head chef, Christophe Pache, is well known not only in Antigua but also in Guatemala City. Here you will find all things beef! Although Christophe prepares varied dishes aside from beef based. He was born and trained in Europe but has made his reputation in Antigua. Love, Love, Love! this place!
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Las Antorchas
1 3a Avenida Sur
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This is one of my favorite places to eat. Located 3a Avenida Sur No 1. The staff is friendly and efficient. The open garden setting is beautiful, open and airy. The owners are awesome, the head chef, Christophe Pache, is well known not only in Antigua but also in Guatemala City. Here you will find all things beef! Although Christophe prepares varied dishes aside from beef based. He was born and trained in Europe but has made his reputation in Antigua. Love, Love, Love! this place!
The food will not disappoint.Located 1a Avenida Sur No 9. In addition to a beautiful garden setting for eating (outside is good in our COVID times), it has a well stocked and equally beautiful bar. The menu changes and is always unique and delicious. It's close to the house and it's my 'GoTo' place when I want to take in the ambiance of Antigua-its all about treating yourself to something memorable.
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Fermento
9 1a Avenida Sur
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The food will not disappoint.Located 1a Avenida Sur No 9. In addition to a beautiful garden setting for eating (outside is good in our COVID times), it has a well stocked and equally beautiful bar. The menu changes and is always unique and delicious. It's close to the house and it's my 'GoTo' place when I want to take in the ambiance of Antigua-its all about treating yourself to something memorable.
The view from this funky cafe is worth the visit. Located 1a Avenida Sur No 15. It's not expensive, and I would avoid the lettuce-smile. But the view, and getting up to the roof top is an experience you will remember. I especially enjoy a drink and some nibbles in the late afternoon while I take in the rooftops of the historic district and nearby San Francisco Church.
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Café Sky
15 1a Avenida Sur
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The view from this funky cafe is worth the visit. Located 1a Avenida Sur No 15. It's not expensive, and I would avoid the lettuce-smile. But the view, and getting up to the roof top is an experience you will remember. I especially enjoy a drink and some nibbles in the late afternoon while I take in the rooftops of the historic district and nearby San Francisco Church.

Neighborhoods

Introduction-Casa 23 Antigua Our Heritage Family Home was rebuilt in 1779 by my Ancestral Grandfather Ciriaco. Prior to 1779, the City of Antigua (formally named Santiago de los Caballeros-Saint James City of the Knights) had been the seat of the Spanish Colonial government in Guatemala. Its rule covered much of Central America, from Costa Rica to Southern Mexico. In the 200 years the capital was sited at this location, it grew to be the most important and booming city in Central America. My father once pointed out the great number of religious buildings that are present in Antigua’s’ Historic District. He explained that churches, monasteries, and nunneries cost money to build and maintain. You may notice that there is a high density of these buildings throughout the Historic District. This, my father commented, shows the vast riches and power this city once enjoyed. In 1717, a devastating earthquake hit the area and more than 3,000 buildings were destroyed. In 1773 another large earthquake hit the city, and at that time authorities decided to move the capital to its present location, Guatemala City. Not all the population moved, and at the time, it was declared illegal to stay behind. However, those rebels that stayed behind slowly rebuilt the city once again to what is now known as “Antigua” (the “old” capital). In 1944 the government declared Antigua a National Monument due to the structures that were rebuilt from the era of Spanish rule and prosperity and its archaeological treasures. Most of the destroyed religious structures were left untouched or partially rebuilt (again it’s about money, and this was no longer the capital). In 1979, this beautiful colonial city was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the late 1980’s I inherited a portion of the original structure from my grandfather. The City Council of Antigua soon thereafter designated the home as a Historic Site. This was done to make sure I-as the new owner-respected the historical structure, and followed the regulations intended for historic homes. My husband and I have spent the last many years slowly and carefully remodeling this little piece of my family heritage. We hope you enjoy and see the love and care we have given to this unique structure-both modern and old. Welcome! Casandra
La Antigua GUATEMALA
1 4 Avenida Norte
Introduction-Casa 23 Antigua Our Heritage Family Home was rebuilt in 1779 by my Ancestral Grandfather Ciriaco. Prior to 1779, the City of Antigua (formally named Santiago de los Caballeros-Saint James City of the Knights) had been the seat of the Spanish Colonial government in Guatemala. Its rule covered much of Central America, from Costa Rica to Southern Mexico. In the 200 years the capital was sited at this location, it grew to be the most important and booming city in Central America. My father once pointed out the great number of religious buildings that are present in Antigua’s’ Historic District. He explained that churches, monasteries, and nunneries cost money to build and maintain. You may notice that there is a high density of these buildings throughout the Historic District. This, my father commented, shows the vast riches and power this city once enjoyed. In 1717, a devastating earthquake hit the area and more than 3,000 buildings were destroyed. In 1773 another large earthquake hit the city, and at that time authorities decided to move the capital to its present location, Guatemala City. Not all the population moved, and at the time, it was declared illegal to stay behind. However, those rebels that stayed behind slowly rebuilt the city once again to what is now known as “Antigua” (the “old” capital). In 1944 the government declared Antigua a National Monument due to the structures that were rebuilt from the era of Spanish rule and prosperity and its archaeological treasures. Most of the destroyed religious structures were left untouched or partially rebuilt (again it’s about money, and this was no longer the capital). In 1979, this beautiful colonial city was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the late 1980’s I inherited a portion of the original structure from my grandfather. The City Council of Antigua soon thereafter designated the home as a Historic Site. This was done to make sure I-as the new owner-respected the historical structure, and followed the regulations intended for historic homes. My husband and I have spent the last many years slowly and carefully remodeling this little piece of my family heritage. We hope you enjoy and see the love and care we have given to this unique structure-both modern and old. Welcome! Casandra

Borgartillaga

Samgöngur

Walking is the most convenient way to get around Antigua

The 9 x 9 square blocks of the Historic District is extremely popular by locals and tourists. Parking is not only hard, but the rules are not always clear-even for the locals. Therefore, walking this colonial city is one of your best options. Most areas of interest are within a reasonable distance from the house. If you are adventurous a TukTuk (a modified motorcycle with a cab in the back) is another option. It's a bumpy ride, and not completely safe, but it is a common form of transport. Ask about cost before you get in. Uber is a second option that is now available in Antigua.
Bókaðu áður en þú leggur af stað

Tikal National Park-UNESCO World Heritage Center

A fan of Star Wars? The main ruin in Tikal was a base for the rebellion (smile...in the movie that is). Tikal ruins and the city of Flores are worth the visit. If you book ahead of your trip, you can stay at the park (Hotel Jungle Lodge or Hotel Jaguar Inn). Staying at the park gives you the unique opportunity to wake up before dawn, walk down to the Grand Plaza and watch the jungle come alive. The flight of jewel colored parrots, the vibrant beaks of Toucans, colorful Turkeys, Howler monkeys, and even-perhaps- a jaguar.
Ekki missa af

A day trip that will give you the flavor of the Highlands

A travel agent can set you up with a private shuttle to take you to a more local Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican archaeological site in the western Highlands- Iximche. This is a full day adventure, where you go through small towns and experience the surrounding areas. On the way back you can stop at a popular eatery that locals enjoy. Note: we treated or driver to lunch.
Siðir og menning

Antigua is safe during the day and after dark.

Antigua is not as crime ridden as Guatemala City. In fact, Antigua is considered a safe city as long as you keep to the main streets and don't wander to the less traveled outskirts not in the Historic District. The city keeps its visitors well protected with Tourist Police, City Police and Federal Police. Regardless, be aware of your surroundings while walking the streets, and keep expensive items like jewelry, out of site. Or better yet in the safety lock box at the house along with your passport and extra money.
Siðir og menning

If you can't peel it off, don't eat it

Everyone knows about ice cubes potentially being a way of getting an intestinal infection. However, other items to keep in mind are lettuce (amoebas, Giardia-parasites), strawberries, or any raw vegetable that is not peeled. This is not as critical in the more expensive restaurants. However, when you go out for an afternoon snack to a small place, then cooked is best. Small eateries include Subway, Wendy's, McDonalds-avoid the lettuce! No offense to those places, but I keep clear of lettuce or any raw thin skinned fruit or vegetable-unless I sterilize it myself.
Bókaðu áður en þú leggur af stað

Get the WhatsApp for your cell phone and friends and family.

Everyone I come across in Antigua, and perhaps in Guatemala in general, has WhatsApp. If you are at the house you can use WhatsApp via the house WiFi and not pay extra (it's like FaceTime if you have an iPhone). What makes What'sApp better is that while in Antigua you can call most anyone in Guatemala, make reservations, get a hold of our caretaker or me. Note that it's free as long as you have Wifi (Central Park has free WiFi, cafes and restaurants also have Wifi if you are out and about). In the Casa 23-Antigua House Manual you will find tel.#'s for our caretaker, house manager and me.
Hvað á að taka með

High heel shoes are out-bring flats and thick soled shoes

The Historic District is cobbled stoned and the sidewalks are narrow and not always flat surfaced. To avoid a twisted ankle flats are best. The weather for the most part is mild, so sandals are a good option. If you have sensitive feet, thick soled shoes are also a good option. During the rainy season, it's good to have second pair of shoes just in case you are caught in the rain and soak the first pair.
Hvað á að taka með

Bring a sweater and perhaps a good rain coat.

The weather is mild in the Highlands during the day but at night it can turn chilly (Nov. Dec. Jan. are the coolest). So if you are prone to being cold-like me-take a warm sweater or sweatshirt. In the day, as you are walking around, you will probably be in a light T-shirt and be comfortable. In the wet season a raincoat is a must. We have umbrellas at the house so those are not necessary.
Siðir og menning

Stay away from local pork products

We stay clear of ham, pork chops, or sausages made from local pork. A parasite may be present, the parasite-sorry if it creeps you out- is Trichinella spirals. This parasite lays eggs in the flesh of the unsuspecting hog and in undercooked pork the egg survives to become a worm-in your body. It can migrate from your intestines to muscle tissue and beyond-eyes, brain. So if you are not interested in taking home some extra friends-stay away from pork unless it's processed outside Guatemala.
Ekki missa af

For minor illness or discomfort-

This is my 'Go to place" if I'm not feeling well (minor cold, rash, stomach discomfort). If you need an over the counter medication, head over to Farmacia Roca. Located one block from Central Park-on 4th street West (cuatro Calle PONIENTE). The pharmacist is very knowledgeable. Many locals use pharmacies as Urgent Care facilities, and the pharmacists seem more like Nurse Practitioners. Don't be surprised if the pharmacist at F. Roca asks questions about your general health, and meds you may be taking before recommending the medication you may need. Take a mobile translator.
Samgöngur

UBER

You should have this app handy. I'll say no more.
Samgöngur

Paid parking near Casa 23-Antigua

Casa 23-Antigua does not have an indoor parking space. There is street parking you can use if you come in a car. For additional security you may be interested in a paid parking lot. There is one nearby and a short walk from the house. The parking lot belongs to Hotel Porta Antigua. It is located on 4a Avenida Sur. Between 8 Calle and 9 Calle.