Cobbled streets beneath three volcanoes
Antigua was the capital of Spanish Central America until earthquakes in 1773 led the government to move, leaving a beautifully preserved town of cobbled streets, baroque churches and ruined convents. The yellow Santa Catalina Arch frames the Agua Volcano, and the Fuego Volcano, still active, often puffs smoke nearby. Climbing Acatenango for an overnight view of Fuego's eruptions is a highlight. The town is full of cafés roasting local coffee, and its Holy Week processions, over carpets of coloured sawdust and flowers, are famous.