I created a three mile self-guided walking tour of Old San Juan. I’m not a big fan of organized tours. Sometimes they’ll talk too much about things I’m not interested in and my back hurts if I stand for more than 5 minutes in one place. I prefer to go at my own speed and take photos. I parked near Paseo de la Princesa. My walking route took me uphill.

Viego San Juan reminds me of Europe somewhat.

My next stop was Museo Casa Blanca. On the way I saw…

Museo Casa Blanca was originally built in 1521 as the main residence for Puerto Rico’s first governor, Juan Ponce de León.  This landmark is Old San Juan’s oldest residence. Nowadays, the residence serves as a museum housing 16th and 17th-century artifacts.

I continued on…

Saint Mary Magdalene de Pazzis Cemetery was established in the 19th century. The Spanish built it outside the city walls due to their great fear of death. Its location facing the sea stems from the superstitious belief that the deceased began a journey to “the afterlife” and being near the sea symbolized the beginning of eternity. This cemetery is the final resting place of Puerto Rico’s most prominent natives and residents.

I walked around for about 2 hours. I love all the colors!

I’m starting to wear down. Today is a day of rest.