Relief Map (Mapa en Relieve)
Avenida Simeón Cañas, Guatemala City, GTM
Constructed in 1904, long before Google Earth, this huge 3-dimensional outdoor map of Guatemala offers a grand-scale viewpoint of the mountainous country from above. A family-friendly attraction, Mapa en Relieve contains all the country’s volcanoes, rivers and lakes (some with running water), as well as its cities, roads, bridges, and railroad tracks.
Set inside a park filled with eucalyptus trees, this massive (130 x 60 feet / 40 x 80 meters) map offers a great way to get a feel for the country. Enjoy a view of the topographical relief from the observation tower.
Explore the map as part of a half-day or full-day sightseeing tour of Guatemala City, learning about the city’s rich history and culture while navigating the main thoroughfares and quiet squares and stopping in top attractions such as Constitution Square, Plaza Mayor, Metropolitan Cathedral, and more.
- Mapa en Relieve is an ideal spot for cartography enthusiasts and families.
- Visit the exhibition hall to view the photo exhibition Guatemala in the 18th century.
- Take the kids to the playground within the park.
- Visit the Sound Forest of Hormigo with over 100 hormigo trees, each one honoring a Guatemalan composer or artistic performer.
Mapa en Relieve is located in Parque Minerva in the northern Zone 2 of Guatemala City. Drive or take the bus V-21 from the center of town, north along 7a Avenida. Once you reach the park, follow the signs to the map.
The map is open daily year-round. Be aware that on weekends, the crowds descend, particularly Sundays when the main street is closed from 10am to 2pm for Pasos y Pedales, allowing people to walk or bike on the street. If you want to feel the rhythm of daily family life in the city, this is a great time to come. In August a fair takes over the park.
After the map, take time to explore the rest of thexa0 park. Created in 1881, this expansive green space offers beautiful gardens, swimming pools, a baseball field, a soccer field, and a children’s playground. The kids’ area has a small railway circuit and various other games to keep them entertained.
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