The segunda ciudad (the second city) is second only in size, with open streets, lavish national theather and an abundance of stylish restaurants. Sharp green hills surround the city, with the cones of Cerro Verde and the Izalco and Santa Ana volcanoes further to the south. It's still a coffee town, surrounded by many plantations where workers till the rich volcanic soil. Santa Ana has retained more of its colonial heritage than most cities this size, and it therefore more pleasent that the country's choking capital. Wide, clean streets pass between old buildings in surprising good condition, most are under two stories high and painted in pastel colores. The low buildings leave lots of blue sky that gives the city a spacious feel. Local artisans are famous for their leather goods.
A given on any itinerary west of San Salvador, Santa Ana enjoys a cool climate and a impressively large fruit market. Come here to relax, enjoy the city and may even have dinner at a fancy restaurant. The hiking, campign and boating to the south among the best in the country, and both the Lago de Coatepeque and the Guatemalan border are withing easy reach. Santa Ana's architecture is unmatched anywhere else in the country, especially the cathedral and natioanal theather. You could walk an entire afternnon admiring the colonials houses--in particular those around 4a C between 6a and 10a Av--peeking through the grill-work in the gardens and enormous courtyards.
Things to See and Do
Sights
Santa Ana Cathedral. The most famous cathedral in El Salvador was begun in 1905 in a neo-gothic style. The imposing white facade is currentely undergoing retoration; inside are 3 naves decorated with images dating back to the 16th century. A high ceiling and worn wooden floor leads to a while altar. The pink and grey columns look like marble, but they are actually painted concrete.
Templo El Calvario. A figure of Jesus in purple robes carrying the cross stands inside this church in Parque Menendez. The walss are lined with detailed sculptures, and the image of Jesus on the door is repeated above the altar.
Luis Pedro Leather Shop. A small boutique with leather shoes and bags make in Santa Ana. Dress shoes run about $15, belts $18 and purses $70. Everything is high-quality.
