Travel Guide Santa Ana

Located 66 km from the capital, Santa Ana is the country's second-largest city, in the heart of a valley 650 m above sea level. The Lamatepec volcano has been its guardian since time immemorial. In pre-Columbian times, the site was known as "Sihuatehuacán" (the city of witches), where the Mayan god Ixqueye was celebrated. The current name became popular after the construction of a hermitage in honor of Nuestra Señora de Santa Ana, in 1569.The historic center is pleasant. Many of the buildings date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, combining neoclassical and Baroque styles. The Gothic cathedral was built in 1905. The Palacio del Ayuntamiento, home to the town hall, dates from 1874. The National Theatre is also worth a visit, as is the Museo Regional de Occidente. Nearby, you can visit the ruins of Chalchuapa, Casa Blanca and El Tazumal. It's also an ideal base for exploring the Route of Flowers, Lake Coatepeque and Cerro Verde National Park.During the Fiestas Julias from July 17 to 26, the town comes alive with local culinary specialties, such as Mazapán sweets ( marañon seed pastry).