Hermitage of the Sacred Cross

It is considered the oldest in Antigua Guatemala.

It dates back to 1664, when a few Dominican monks requested authorization to build a new convent in the neighborhood of the Sacred Cross.

The Indians, mulattoes, and mixed-breeds that populated the neighborhood were cared for by a group of friars. Although several residents left the area, the temple continued its mission. We can still see the details that adorned the façade; it was considered one of the most beautiful temples.

We must learn a little about the history of other temples of Antigua Guatemala if we are to appreciate the good work that the religious community did with the faithful.

After the earthquakes of 1717, which greatly damaged the structures of the temple, the Indian residents helped the missionaries rebuild the facilities.

This was an extraordinary occurrence, if we consider that only the sponsors, the members of the orders, and masons rebuilt the other temples of the city. Although the work was of good quality, the earthquakes of 1773 damaged the structure again. Years later, in 1942, other earthquakes felled the dome.

Art and theater before an impressive façade

Efforts to promote cultural activities and the fine arts resulted in the creation of a Permanent Art and Culture Festival by the Guatemalan Government.

The Festival made an important impression in Antigua Guatemala and, in 1971, the Hermitage of the Sacred Cross began to operate as the stage for opera and ballet.

The Hermitage is an ancient temple destroyed by earthquakes. Several groups, among which the National Council for the Protection of Antigua Guatemala is the most important, lobbied to make the hermitage a permanent stage in 1973.

It should be noted that it was necessary to plan restoration in order for the facilities to withstand the sounds and vibrations produced by the amplification equipment required for performances.