UNESCO, an arm of the United Nations, has established a list of the World Heritage Sites, the Earth’s most significant places, based on historical, cultural, and aesthetic considerations. These places should be preserved so that all mankind can appreciate their legacy, their significance, and their beauty.

Latin America contains a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in countries from Mexico to Chile. Here are a few that we have managed to visit in our travels.

Colombia

Cartagena Fortresses and Group of Monuments — The coastal city of Cartagena was threatened by pirates many times in its history. Spain built perhaps its most formidable fortifications to protect this beautiful city (Walking Tour available for $1.49 on website).

Fuerte de San Felipe

Mexico

Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza — The Mayan complex at Chichen Itza is perhaps the best preserved and most impressive in Latin America. The crowning achievement of the ceremonial city is El Castillo, the huge pyramid which dominates the entire complex.

El Castillo

Historic Center of Mexico City — The world’s largest urban area is loaded with American history — it was a significant Native American city prior to (and underneath) the modern city (Walking Tour available for $1.49 on website).

Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City

Guadalajara — Hospicio Cabanas — The Colonial city of Guadalajara has many fountains and a pedestrian-only central core that invites tourism (Walking Tour available for $1.49 on website).

Guadalajara Fountain

Panama — Historic District of Panama City — Panama’s Old City is a mixed bag. Some places are carefully and artfully restored and maintained; others are run down and seedy. But it is certainly a worthwhile place to visit (Walking Tour available for $1.49 on website).

City Hall, Panama City