Plaza de la Constitución (Parque Central)
Constitution Plaza, Guatemala City, GTM
Guatemala City’s huge central plaza is a hive of activity, with people and pigeons milling about. Surrounded by important historical buildings, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana and the National Palace, the square is the focal point of the city, and is frequently the setting for demonstrations and celebrations.
As Guatemala City’s central hub and the site of two of its top landmarks, Plaza de la Constitución is a natural sightseeing jumping-off point. Almost all city sightseeing tours stop here so travelers can see the Metropolitan Cathedral and the imposing National Palace. For a more comprehensive understanding of Guatemalan history, join a combo tour that explores both Guatemala City—including Plaza de la Constitución—and the former colonial capital of Antigua.
- Visitors can explore the National Palace, now a museum, on a guided tour.
- Street vendors on the square sell food and souvenirs.
- The plaza is in the center of Guatemala City’s historical district, with many major attractions, including Central Market (Mercado Central) and Casa MIMA museum, within easy walking distance.
Plaza de la Constitución is in Zone 1, the historic center of Guatemala City. Transmetro bus line 1, which runs on dedicated lanes separate from regular traffic, stops at Parque Centenario station.
The plaza is best visited during the day. There is more going on at this time, and nearby shops and attractions are open.
The mammoth, domed Metropolitan Cathedral stands proud on the east end of Plaza de la Constitución. Built between 1782 and 1815, the cathedral blends baroque and neoclassical architecture, and has withstood numerous earthquakes over the years. Today, it’s the setting of a memorial dedicated to the casualties of the Guatemalan Civil War.
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