La Antigua

La Antigua is a small town some 27 kilometers from the City of Veracruz. Best known for the Casa de Hernán Cortés, the site was an administrative center begun as early as 1523. This was to provide services for the sea port which is today known as Veracruz. The ruins of the original site are quite moving, covered as they are in amate roots, the tree that could very rightly be considered a symbol for all of the state Veracruz. 

The place is one of tremendous legend and lore, but visitors come because it's close to the city, and is historically connected with that already fascinating place. One such legend holds that Cortés had his ships moored to a towering ceiba tree, itself still living even at an age well over 500 years. Visitors will also take to the Ermita del Rosario, said to be the first Catholic church on the continent which can be visited. The Plaza de Armas, the main city plaza, still serves as a public space, and is thought to have been drawn up in plans made by Hernán Cortés himself.  

People come to visit these sites and the historic First City Hall (Primer cabildo de la Nueva España) building too. The history is so thick here, one is almost forgiving of the coastal heat and tropical atmosphere. It's palpable at every turn. The father of the ignoble Santa Ana who made so much his first half of the 19th century, was an early and important official appointee here. He built a historic barracks on what may have been the old horse stables, the Caballerizas de Antonio López de Santa Ana. This is another important ruin at the center of the town and one which makes strolling the central streets so interesting. 

Today, visitors are not met by crowds of people catering to the tourist industry, but for its lack of crowds, one can have a very pleasant visit to La Antigua. The city enjoys all manner of services, from lodging to restaurants and eateries. As a river town, all manner of activities take place on and near the river banks. And events can extend well into the night. 

Most visitors will arrive for day trips from the Puerto de Veracruz. There is also reliable bus and combi service though you should check on times for return trips especially.