Forts

Settled in 1521 by Spanish conquistadors 'old city' San Juan is a small island just off the main land surrounded by stone fortress walls.
It has the classic Spanish fort look but its what lays inside the walls that determines the vibe of the neighborhood.

This is the third 'Spanish fort' we have spent time in and San Juan's may be the most chill. We found it easy to navigate and though it thrived on tourism it didn't come across as too over baring as long as you avoided sight of the cruise ships.
There are many small plazas that sprinkle the streets which contain artisan markets, busking musicians and devote Catholics.

The beauty of the giant stonewalls are stunning. Though this wonder is met with equal realization that its roots lay in the notion of conquest and colonization, an unfortunate result of all human historic sites.
We find it's best not to think about the flawed reasons behind exploration and just enjoy the byproduct of the artist inclusion of building and decorating.