Iglesia de La Merced
Iglesia de La Merced
Iglesia de La Merced (1a Calle Poniente & 6a Avenida Norte, Antigua) – located an
hour’s drive west of the country’s capital (34 km), this church and convent were finished
in 1767. The church featured priceless works of art and was noted for its architectural
beauty. Unfortunately, major earthquakes hit the city in 1773. While the structure
resisted the earthquakes, the convent’s walls were weakened, later falling during
subsequent earthquakes that year. Due to circumstance, this site wasn’t rebuilt until
1853.
Among the art seen inside this church is the image of Jesus Nazareno, an antique
baroque piece that’s showcased throughout Antigua during Palm Sunday and Good
Friday processions. The image of Virgen de Dolores, by sculptor Pedro de Mendoza, is
worth seeing, as is the gold-leaf retablo. Take note of the Mercedarian shield. Once
you learn to recognize it, you’ll spot it not only inside the church but in a lot more places
throughout the city. Admission (convent tour): Q15 (foreigners), Q7 (locals). Hours:
9:00 am – 6:00 pm (daily).