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Antigua Mint
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Historical site
The Casa de la Moneda in Antigua Guatemala was the first official mint established in Central America, founded in 1731 during the reign of King Philip V of Spain. This institution played a critical role in the economic stability of the Captaincy General of Guatemala by reducing reliance on coins minted in Mexico or Spain. Within its walls, the famous 'Columnarios' were produced, silver coins featuring the Pillars of Hercules that were recognized as international legal tender. The building itself was a masterpiece of Spanish colonial architecture, engineered to withstand the heavy mechanical stress of the minting presses. Following the catastrophic Santa Marta earthquakes of 1773, operations were halted, and the machinery was relocated to the new capital, Guatemala City. Today, the ruins of the mint in Antigua serve as a significant historical monument, highlighting the region's colonial prosperity and its former status as a financial hub.
- Location: Guatemala
- Top sights: Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, Antigua Guatemala · Sacatepéquez Department · National Museum of Guatemalan Art
- Nearby: Escuintla (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 7 | 12 | 41 | 163 | 225 | 172 | 223 | 243 | 191 | 43 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The ruins of the royal mint in Antigua are accessible to visitors, mostly outdoors. You can see the remains of buildings and the historical coin-minting facilities.
Typical hours
The ruins are typically open during daytime, usually Tuesday through Sunday. Exact hours vary seasonally, so checking on-site is recommended.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, though tripods or flash may be restricted in some areas. Take the opportunity to capture atmospheric shots of the ruins.
Time needed
A visit to the ruins typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. If interested in the history of coin minting, allow a bit more time.
Combine with
Combine your visit with other Antigua attractions such as the Central Park and surrounding church ruins. The town is compact and walkable.
Getting there
The ruins are located in Antigua's historic center, a few minutes' walk from the central park. Best reached on foot or by taxi, as streets are cobbled and narrow.
Insider tip
Visit the ruins early in the morning to avoid midday heat and get better photos. Bring plenty of water as there is little shade on site.
Geography
Facts
- The mint officially opened its doors on January 17, 1733.
- The first coin minted on-site in Guatemala was a silver Real.
- Diego de Porres served as the lead architect for the original structure.
- Coins produced here featured the 'G' mint mark for Guatemala.
- Gold coin production began at the facility in the year 1754.
- The minting machinery was transported to Guatemala City in 1776.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Antigua Mint (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What was the function of the Mint?
Money for the entire Captaincy General of Guatemala was minted here.
Where is the building located today?
It is part of the Palace of the Captains General complex in Antigua.
Can you see the old minting machines?
Some replicas and original pieces are exhibited in the city museum.
When did operations cease?
After the 1773 earthquakes, minting was moved to the new capital.
What currency was minted?
Mainly Spanish Real and Escudo coins of silver and gold were produced.
Antigua Mint: where is it located?
Antigua Mint is located in Guatemala.
Antigua Mint: what is there to see?
Highlights include Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepéquez Department, National Museum of Guatemalan Art.
Antigua Mint: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Antigua Mint: why is it worth visiting?
The Casa de la Moneda in Antigua Guatemala was the first official mint established in Central America, founded in 1731 during the reign of King Philip V of Spain.
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History & landmarks
Santa Catalina Arch
An iconic arch in Antigua, originally built to allow nuns from a convent to cross the street unseen.
Palace of the Captains General
The former government headquarters of the Spanish colony in Antigua, now a cultural center.
La Merced Church
An impressive baroque church in Antigua that withstood the 1773 earthquakes.
San Francisco El Grande Church
One of the largest and oldest churches in Antigua, burial place of Saint Hermano Pedro.
Convent of the Capuchins
A well-preserved convent in Antigua, known for its unique circular tower.
Finca Filadelfia Coffee Resort
One of the oldest and most famous coffee plantations in Guatemala, near Antigua.
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La Azotea Cultural Center
A cultural center near Antigua with museums on coffee, music, and Maya traditions.
More places
Antigua City Hall Palace
The colonial city hall on Antigua's central square, now a museum.
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ChocoMuseo Antigua
A small family-friendly stop that showcases Guatemala's cacao and chocolate.
Antigua Carmelite Convent
The ruins of another significant nunnery in the former capital.
Finca La Azotea Coffee
A historic coffee estate with museums, gardens, and strong local character.
Earthquake of 1773
The series of earthquakes that destroyed the then-capital, Antigua Guatemala, leading to the founding of Guatemala City.
Antigua Coffee Plantations
Coffee slopes around Antigua with volcanic soil and cool mountain air.
Finca Filadelfia Coffee Estate
A well-known coffee estate near Antigua with horseback and garden areas.
Santo Domingo Monastery
The ruins of one of the largest monasteries in Antigua, now a hotel with a museum.