Church and Convent of La Merced

This temple is one of the landmarks of the Colonial City. National and foreign photographers have visited its atrium to capture the details of its Baroque stucco facade.

There are so many minute adornments over and around the entrance that a single photography would not suffice.

Juan de Chaves, to whom many documents refer to as “Juan de Dios”, did the finishing touches of the building and the altar. Inside the convent, in the main courtyard, is one of the largest classic fountains of the city. Wide halls and beautiful arches surround the courtyard.

This temple originated from the efforts of the friars of Order of the Mercies, one of the oldest in the American continent.

This order arrived in America in the first vessels that traveled from Spain, during the Colony.

Since 1541, the friars had owned a piece of land.

They sought support to make the plot larger. In 1583 they built the temple. Earthquakes destroyed the building, which was again erected in 1767. This last building is the one we see today.

Location in La Antigua Guatemala Click here and go to the interactive map.

Although several earthquakes have damaged the temple, it is still standing. The convent was not so lucky: it was rendered to ruins regardless of its very thick walls. The place was later used as a quarry.

There are two fountains around the church, one in front of the cross and the other one in the plaza. Many birds visit this place and fill the environment with their songs.

The full complex, church and convent, are located in 1st Street West and 6th Avenue North, half a block from the Arch of Saint Catherine. In this area there is also a cul-de-sac with a small mural of Our Lady of the Mercies.