The oldest building at the Square is the Church of the Divine Savior, built in the early years of the 16th century. Firstly built in the Renaissance style, which was typical for that time, it was later rebuilt and widened several times. In sacristy there are still carving elements, typical for gothic décor. The church’s ceiling is made from pine in Mudejar style. By the way, the city hall, which was built in the second part of the 16th century, is decorated in the same style. Inside you may see the coat of arms of La Palma, Philip of Spain, the Royal dynasty of Austria, and also the paintings of G. Mendez and the murals of M. Kassier. There is also a big archive of important historical documents.
You should definitely visit the Castle of Santa Catalina. Built in 1554, its purpose was to protect the city, which was destroyed by the pirates the previous year. It had been successfully fulfilling its goal for a few centuries. There were food warehouses, barracks, and a prison. A nice civilian building is the 17th-century Casa Salazar, the castle of the governor Salazar. In Santa Cruz you can also find the copy of Columbus’ ship, Santa Maria, inside which there is Maritime Museum. Don’t forget to visit the House of Tobacco, where they will tell you a lot of interesting things about cigars.
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