Mapa en Relieve

Guatemala City


North of Zona 1, Zona 2 is mostly a middle-class residential district, but it's worth venturing along to Parque Minerva to see this huge open-air map of Guatemala showing the country at a scale of 1:10,000. The vertical scale is exaggerated to 1:2000 to make the volcanoes and mountains appear dramatically higher and steeper than they really are.

Constructed in 1905 under the direction of Francisco Vela, it was fully restored and repainted in 1999. Viewing towers afford a panoramic view. This is an odd but fun place, and it's curious to observe that Belize is still represented as part of Guatemala. It's an easy walk (or short cab ride) from Parque Central.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Guatemala City attractions

1. Parque Minerva

0.03 MILES

Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, technical skill and invention, was a favorite of President Manuel Estrada Cabrera. Her park is a placid place, good…

2. Palacio Nacional de la Cultura

1.27 MILES

On the north side of Parque Central is this imposing presidential palace, which was built between 1936 and 1943 during the dictatorial rule of General…

3. Parque Central

1.32 MILES

Guatemala City's central plaza is an excellent starting point from which to begin your journey to other Zona 1 sights. Parque Central and the adjoining…

4. Catedral Metropolitana

1.32 MILES

Facing Parque Central, this cathedral was constructed between 1782 and 1815 (the towers were finished in 1867). It has survived earthquake and fire,…

5. Museo Nacional de Historia

1.44 MILES

This museum hosts a jumble of historical relics with an emphasis on photography and portraits. Check out the carefully coiffed hairstyles of the 19th…

6. Centro Cultural Metropolitano

1.62 MILES

To the rear of the ground floor of the palacio de correos (post office), you'll find a surprisingly avant-garde cultural center, hosting art exhibitions,…

7. Casa MIMA

1.82 MILES

A wonderfully presented museum and cultural center set in a house dating from the late 19th century. The owners of the house were collectors with eclectic…

8. Museo del Ferrocarril

2.12 MILES

This is one of the city's more intriguing museums, with lots of photos and interesting memorabilia from the train days of old. Documented here are the…