In the late morning of September 29, 1717, a powerful earthquake rocked Antigua Guatemala, then the capital of the Spanish colonial territory of Guatemala. The quake, part of a series of seismic events in the region, resulted in the destruction of numerous historic buildings in the city, which was known for its rich Baroque architecture and colonial heritage. Structures such as monasteries, churches, and residential buildings suffered massive damage, with some completely collapsing. Notably, the renowned La Merced Church experienced significant destruction, highlighting the severity of the earthquake's impact on religious and cultural sites.

Following the earthquake, there was considerable panic among the residents, with many fleeing to the surrounding areas for safety. The immediate aftermath saw the city analyze its infrastructure, leading to calls for rebuilding efforts. However, this event was pivotal in prompting some settlers to consider relocating to nearby areas, particularly as the seismic activity continued in the region. This shift ultimately contributed to the reestablishment of the capital in what is now known as Guatemala City.

The quake's occurrence was indicative of the geological instability of Central America, a region characterized by tectonic activity due to the boundaries of several major plates. The aftermath not only changed the physical landscape of Antigua but also significantly affected its demographic composition and economic status as rebuilding efforts took hold, influencing the city’s development in the decades that followed.