The Spanish invaders left their mark all over the island’s architecture. The “conquistadors” are responsible for the colonial style that can be seen all over the island. Many native Margaritans today occupy old colonial houses, the Old Library of La Asuncion (today’s Nueva Cadiz museum of colonial pieces) is in a colonial house, and the churches and forts on the island tell a tale of conquest and the meeting and mixing of cultures. When visiting Margarita make sure to take in the Spanish influence that gives the island so much of its character and charm.
    Founded in 1561 in the Valley of Santa Lucia, La Asunción, the island’s capital and the oldest town in the island, is one of the best places to see the colonial architecture of the island. Here you can admire the Nueva Cadiz museum, housed in a beautiful colonial house. Other marvelous architecture can be found in the capital, from the colonial period and before, including the Parish Church, from in the XVI century, and the old Convent San Francisco, also built in the XVI century, which now houses government offices but can still be admired for its beauty and grace. Another beautiful building to see is the Santa Rosa Castle, constructed at the end of the XVII century. The castle is an awe-inspiring sight, built to defensively dominate the Santa Lucia Valley, which it continues to do to this day.

     Pampatar is another beautiful place to see the architecture of the island. Here you can see exquisite examples of the colonial buildings the Spaniards erected.