San Salvador

About

Founded by the conquistadors in the 16th century atop the region’s abandoned tribal capital, San Salvador remained relatively small until the ‘Golden Age of Coffee’ in the early 20th century. After several tumultuous decades, the city has received a face-lift, and now offers visitors an attractive downtown area. The most unique monument is undoubtedly the Iglesia Rosario. Looking something like an aircraft hangar from the outside, the church interior is illuminated by a rainbow of colors courtesy of the countless stained glass panes covering the building. Nearby, the mid-century Metropolitan Cathedral follows a more traditional design, but it’s the tomb of Oscar Romero attracts visitors. San Salvador has some criminally-overlooked museums as well. The Museo David J Guzmanand presents a fascinating exhibition of Mayan artefacts recovered from around Central America, while the "Museo de Arte MARTE has the greatest art collection in the country, and the lavish national palace has been repurposed to house the National Museum.