Sacatepéquez is the smallest of Guatemala's twenty-two departments. Located in the heart of the country, it is home to approximately 380,000 inhabitants. Geographically, it spans an area of 465 km², covering parts of Guatemala to the north and east, Escuintla to the south, and Chimaltenango to the west. The province takes pride in its rich cultural heritage, which attracts thousands of foreign visitors each year. Five waterways meander through the department: Gualacate, Los Encuentros, Las Cañas, Pensativo, and Sumpango.

Its capital, Antigua, hosts the celebrations of Holy Week. During the festivities, thousands of people fill the streets in long processions. Adding to this spectacular atmosphere are the brilliant colored carpets specially crafted from sawdust. The city has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979.

History

Once, the term Sacatepéquez originated from an ancient Pipil Maya dialect, literally meaning "grassy mountain". A village built on November 21, 1542, bore this name but was destroyed by the great Santa Marta earthquake on July 29, 1773.

Meanwhile, Antigua Guatemala, which had become the capital of Sacatepéquez, was the political center of Central America during the colonial era. From the largest area of Antigua Guatemala emerged a province called Alcaldia Mayor de Sacatepéquez, also known as Corregimiento or Gobernación. The new department of Sacatepéquez was finally established following the proclamation of independence from Spain on September 12, 1839.

Today

In the department of Sacatepéquez, residents place great importance on popular cultural traditions. They perpetuate a folk art that combines pre-Hispanic, Spanish, and African cultures. The characteristic traits of the colonial era remain omnipresent, evident in ceramic industries, ironwork, and the crafting of precious materials such as gold, silver, and jade. As you wander through the streets, you'll spot numerous shops selling local artisanal products. If you wish to shop, a large covered market offers the finest local goods. Sacatepéquez also owes its reputation to the concentration of fine wood furniture manufacturing zones, including Antigua Guatemala, Aliening, Sumpango, Santa Catarina Barahora, and Ciudad Vieja. The department also hosts numerous local fairs that become true gathering places.

About Ciudad Vieja

Ciudad Vieja is an important city and municipality in the southwest section of Antigua. According to the latest census conducted in 2018, the municipality had more than thirty thousand inhabitants and was Guatemala's second colonial capital. The city was abandoned after being devastated by a deadly mudslide from Agua Volcano in 1541, which claimed the life of Governor Beatriz de la Cueva. If you find yourself in the new neighborhood of San Miguel Escobar, you'll discover the ruins of the old community.

Visiting Sacatepéquez Department

First, begin your journey at the Florencia Ecological Park and its pristine lush forests, located between Santa Lucia and Magdalena Milpa Altas. Another reserve can be found in the town of Santiago: the Cerro Alux Ecological Park. Heading a bit further north is the San Lucas viewpoint, which offers splendid views over Guatemala City. In the town of Jocotenango, a butterfly sanctuary welcomes visitors. In San Juan Obispo stands the baroque-style residence of Guatemala's first bishop, Francisco Marroquin. Experience the Old West charm of Pastores. While you're there, take a detour to La Cruz farm and glimpse the Nanayaca cave.

But the main attractions of Guatemala are especially concentrated within its capital, including Cerro de la Cruz and Capeuleu farm. In any case, plenty of surprises await you.

Its Volcanoes

The volcanic region is a paradise for climbing enthusiasts and those who simply want to trek for pleasure. Agua Volcano is the sixth highest volcanic peak in Guatemala. Its ascent presents no particular difficulties in reaching the summit. From there, enjoy sweeping views of magnificent forests and valleys. You can spend the night there, where pleasant cool breezes prevail. Two other volcanoes made Sacatepéquez famous: Acatenango and Fuego. They stand side by side, though the latter appears to remain active. Acatenango, ranked third among the highest volcanic peaks, is recommended for experienced mountaineers.

Its Archaeological Sites

In Antigua, you'll find structures dating back to the pre-Columbian period, such as Finca El Portal farm, the cathedral, and churches including La Merced, El Calvario, and Belen. Other sites display numerous remnants from the colonial era.

Its Museums

Museums are plentiful throughout Sacatepéquez. You can visit the Santiago Museum, the San Francisco Museum, Casa Popenoe, or the Art Museum, formerly the seat of the San Carlos de Guatemala University.

Its Colonial Monuments

The colonial site of Antigua, recently restored, now displays a beautiful setting, blending baroque style with Spanish Renaissance architecture. The site brings together several buildings that will immediately capture your attention. You'll see, among others, the Palace of the Captains General, the City Hall, the Capuchin Convent, the Cathedral of San José, as well as various churches such as San Felipe de Jesus and San Cristobal El Bajo.

Practical Information

Climate

Sacatepéquez department enjoys favorable weather, thanks to marine winds that blow regularly in its direction. This advantage is largely due to its orientation toward the Pacific Ocean. Throughout the year, the region experiences particularly pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures.

Fly to Antigua and land at "La Aurora airport", the closest airport to the region. From there, you can choose between taxi and shuttle service to reach your accommodation. Moreover, Sacatepéquez has an excellent road network that facilitates access to other cities.

You have the option to rent a scooter or motorcycle for the day. Another option is to take a bus if you wish to explore nearby sites. Conversely, hiking enthusiasts can easily tackle routes on foot in certain areas.