10 things to do in La Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel (Church of San Miguel Arcángel) Chinautla Guatemala
Visiting La Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel (Church of San Miguel Arcángel) in Chinautla, Guatemala is a must-see for any traveler looking to explore the rich culture of this Central American country. Located just outside of Guatemala City, this magnificent church is a stunning example of the region's unique colonial architecture. Built in the late 16th century, the church is a living testament to the importance of faith and religion in the lives of the people of Chinautla. Here are 10 things to do when visiting this incredible church.
1. Tour the Church: La Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel is one of the most impressive churches in Guatemala. The building is made of white stone and features a grand bell tower, ornate stained-glass windows, and a beautiful altar. Take some time to explore the church and admire its grandeur.
2. Visit the Crypt: The crypt beneath the church is a must-see for visitors. Here you will find the remains of the church's original founders, as well as the tombs of several prominent figures in Chinese culture.
3. Attend a Service: The church is still an active place of worship and visitors are welcome to attend services. Whether you are Catholic or not, attending a service is a great way to learn more about the local culture and appreciate the importance of religion in the lives of the people of Chinautla.
4. Explore the Grounds: The church grounds are a great place to explore. The gardens are filled with beautiful flowers and plants, and there is a peaceful pond that is a great spot to relax.
5. Take Photos: La Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel is a stunningly beautiful church and the perfect place to take photos. Whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur, the church is an ideal backdrop for your photos.
6. Visit the Museum: The church has a small museum that houses a collection of artifacts from the church's history. Here you can learn more about the church's past and see some of the original artwork and sculptures from the church's construction.
7. Attend a Festival: Each year the church hosts a number of festivals throughout the year. From the traditional Easter celebration to the colorful Feria de San Miguel Arcángel, there is always something happening at the church.
8. Visit the Shops: The church is surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and find souvenirs. Be sure to check out the local artisans and vendors who sell their handmade goods around the church.
9. Take a Hike: The surrounding area is a great place to explore. Take a hike up to the nearby hills and admire the stunning views of the church and the surrounding countryside.
10. Enjoy the Food: The food around the church is some of the best in Guatemala. Be sure to try some of the local dishes such as tamales, enchiladas, and pupusas.
No matter what you decide to do when visiting La Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. From exploring the church and its grounds to sampling the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Chinautla.