La Antigua is a sleepy backwater that shelters almost 500 years of colonial history. Founded in the 1520s, this riverside town was once the centre of trade deals for the viceroyalty of New Spain. Control of trading moved to the port city of Veracruz following major smuggling activity. Today La Antigua has some of Mexico’s oldest-surviving colonial landmarks. Take boat tours along the Río Antigua from this pleasant village.
In the town centre, find centuries-old monuments and ruins, many overgrown with parasite trees. Overlooking the main square is the Parish Church of Santo Cristo del Buen Viaje. Wander the remains of the House of Hernán Cortés, once a customs house. See the 19th-century Stables of Antonio López de Santa Anna on the site of a 16th-century hospital. Marvel at the impressive size of stone cannons, previously used to prevent invasion.
Stand in front of the huge Sacred Ceiba Tree. Legend states that Hernán Cortés, a Spanish explorer and conqueror of the Aztecs, anchored his boats here when he invaded Mexico in 1519. Nearby are busts of the independence leader Miguel Hidalgo and politician Benito Juarez. Shop for handicrafts and religious curios at tianguis (open-air markets).
A 5-minute walk from the historic centre is the Chapel of the Rosary. Franciscan missionaries erected this quaint hermitage in 1523 on the orders of Hernán Cortés. Look for detailed mosaic interpretations of the Way of the Cross decorating the wall that surrounds the chapel. Inside is a 12-petal flower sculpture dedicated to the missionaries.
Stroll to the riverbank and cross the wooden suspension bridge, the Puente Colgante La Antigua. Enjoy uninterrupted views along the Río Antigua. Join a boat trip from the opposite side of the river and stop at swimming spots. Dine on delicious seafood dishes, such as pulpo asado (chargrilled octopus), at waterfront restaurants.
Located about 18 miles (29 kilometres) northwest of Veracruz, La Antigua is a popular daytrip destination. Get here by public bus or arrange a guided tour from Veracruz.
