Tortola

travel update

It was the country’s capital until it was heavily damaged by an earthquake that struck in 1773. Since then, it has largely stood still, leaving it scattered with ruined churches, homes and flower-filled courtyards. In 1979, the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city is dominated by three towering volcanoes - Agua, Fuego and Acatenango. The local shops sell weavings, ceramics, jade ornaments, glass and sculptures in abundance. A meal in one of the local restaurants is a must, serving cuisine from around the globe. In the squares, Maya women sit in their colourful costumes selling their wares.

The city is also renowned for its Easter celebrations, where old rituals are performed in the street and huge floats are decorated with figures of the cross-carrying Christ and the Virgin Mary. It is a small city and best explored on foot, as you stroll from one end of town to another in 30 minutes, appreciating the columns, fountains and floral displays along the way. There are numerous excursions, all within a day’s excursion of Antigua - ranging from a macadamia nut farm to a massage sanctuary. Antigua tends to be considerably busier at weekends.

Tortola