Casa Popenoe

To get an idea of how (rich) people lived in colonial times, visit the Casa Popenoe. The house was built in 1636 by Don Luis de las Infantas Mendoza Y Venegas (another one of those impressive Spanish names), a high placed judicial official. It was ruined by (again) that earthquake of 1773 and abandoned until the ruins were bought in 1929 by an American doctor and his wife. Extensive restorations were made and care was taken to furnish the house in authentic antiques. The courtyard garden is beautiful and don’t forget to check out the dovecote on the roof and the ‘jacuzzi’ in the backyard (filled with diverted mountain water). From the roof you have beautiful views over the city.

The house can be visited daily (except sundays) from 2 -4 pm (small entrance fee).