Where It's Located
The Guatemala City Guatemala Temple is located at 24 Avenida 2-20, Zona 15, Vista Hermosa 1, in Guatemala City, Guatemala. Perched on an elevated site overlooking the capital, the temple sits on a 1.4-acre property and is part of a larger complex that includes a missionary training center, patron housing, and a distribution center. Its six soaring spires make it one of the most recognizable landmarks of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Central America.
Getting There
The nearest major airport is La Aurora International Airport (GUA), located about 5 miles (8 km) from the temple. Travelers from the United States can find nonstop flights from cities including Miami, Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and several others. From the airport, the temple is approximately a 15- to 20-minute drive, depending on traffic.
A Bit of History
The Guatemala City Guatemala Temple was announced by President Spencer W. Kimball on April 1, 1981. It became the first temple in Central America, the first temple in Guatemala, and the third temple built in a Spanish-speaking country, following the Mexico City Mexico Temple and the Santiago Chile Temple.
Groundbreaking and site dedication took place on September 12, 1982, with Elder Richard G. Scott presiding. Following a public open house attended by more than 24,000 visitors, President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on December 14–16, 1984, making it the 32nd operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members from Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and other neighboring countries participated in the historic dedication.
The temple also has deep historical significance because it was dedicated during Guatemala's civil war. In his dedicatory prayer, President Hinckley prayed for peace in the nation. More than a decade later, a peace accord officially brought the conflict to an end. The temple has continued to serve as a symbol of faith and hope throughout the region.
Design and Architecture
The Guatemala City Guatemala Temple contains approximately 11,610 square feet of floor space and is finished with natural white Guatemalan marble. Its most distinctive architectural feature is its six detached spires, with the tallest crowned by an angel Moroni statue. Rising approximately 126 feet, the temple's unique silhouette has become an iconic part of the Guatemala City skyline.
Inside, the temple includes four instruction rooms, three sealing rooms, and one baptistry. The elegant use of locally sourced marble and its elevated setting overlooking the city create a beautiful and peaceful environment for temple worship.
Final Thoughts
The Guatemala City Guatemala Temple holds a special place in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the first temple built in Central America. For decades it has served members throughout Guatemala and neighboring countries while standing as a symbol of the Church's remarkable growth in the region. Its distinctive six-spire design, rich history, and scenic location make it one of the most memorable temples in Latin America.
Scott & Riah
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