Casa de Mazariegos

One of the oldest buildings in San Cristóbal [1], Casa de Mazariegos (Av. Insurgentes at Diego de Mazariegos) sits on the southeast corner of the central plaza [2]. Constructed in 1529, it is often referred to as Casa Sirena (Mermaid House) because of the three mermaids or serpent women (take your pick) that are visible on its eastern wall—two bordering a window, one on the corner.

Time has destroyed the insignia on the coat of arms over the front door, so although the building often is claimed to have been the home of Diego de Mazariegos, many believe it to be that of the conquistador Andrés de la Tovilla.