Ruin sights in North America
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Historic Remains
Opposite the Bridge of Lions, in the heart of downtown, the expansive, grassy Plaza de la Constitution, a former marketplace, has a gazebo, a couple of cannons and a Civil War memorial, as well as the remains of the town well. It was the central market for food, but also for slaves.
Other historic remains include the Old City Gate, at the northern end of St George St, built in 1739 to defend the northern St Augustine line from British attacks; and the Rosario Defense Wall (opposite the Huguenot Cemetery), a re-creation of a section of the original Spanish-built earth barrier - spiky yucca plants and prickly-pear cacti along the top successfully fended off the Brits.
reviewed
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A
Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park
The remains of this historic fort are unspectacular, but they mark the spot where Las Vegas was first settled by non–Native Americans back in 1855. A modest adobe quadrangle provided a refuge for travelers along the Mormon Trail between Salt Lake City and San Bernardino. Some of the original walls still stand, while the visitor center showcases artifacts and photos from the early days. Outside are replicas of the first crops grown here by the Las Vegas Ranch, which revived the settlement almost a decade after the Mormons abandoned it. Today it’s a dusty place, and engaging only for historians.
reviewed
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Mayan Temple
Dedicated chiefly to Ixchel, Maya goddess of the moon and fertility, this temple was 'discovered' by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba's expedition in 1517. The conquistadors found various clay female figures here; whether they were all likenesses of Ixchel or instead represented several goddesses is unclear. In 1988, Hurricane Gilbert almost completely destroyed the ruins.
reviewed
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Yamil Lu’um
The Yamil Lu’um sits atop a beachside knoll in the parklike grounds between the Park Royal and The Westin. To reach the site visitors must pass through either of the hotels flanking it or approach it from the beach (the easiest way) – there is no direct access from the boulevard.
reviewed
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B
Templo de la Virgen del Rosario
Close to the fort are the gorgeous ruins of the Templo de la Virgen del Rosario, built in 1769. You'll find the road up just west of the bridge over Estuario San Cristóbal.
reviewed