Palacio Nacional de la Cultura
Palacio Nacional de la Cultura
Palacio Nacional de la Cultura (6a Calle, Ciudad de Guatemala) – the Presidential
Palace sits on the north side of Parque Central, it is certainly worth a couple of hours to
explore the ins and outs of this fascinating building.
Built between 1936 and 1943 by prisoners on the orders of dictator General Jorge
Ubico, today the palace is a museum and cultural center. This palatial building has
dozens of interesting quirks; ironically the stately banquet hall, with its intricate stained-
glass panels, is meant to signify the virtues of good government. Those passing
through the Palace’s western courtyard will come across the Patio de la Paz, a
monument depicting two hands. This was where Guatemala's Peace Accords were
signed in 1996 (which ended the country’s 30-year civil war). Admission: Q40
(foreigners), free for locals. Hours: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
(weekdays only). Guided tours are available.