From the colonial period, Antigua Guatemala , as the capital of the Kingdom, was an important center for developing cultural activities. Many of them were organized inside the schools founded by distinct religious orders, such as the first one in the region, the Universidad de San Carlos . The population had access to different artistic forms expressed by poets and writers, craftsmen, musicians, painters, and architects. The city was and is itself a mixture of artistic virtues. Currently, there are educational entities, cultural and research centers, civil organizations, and private sectors such as Cultural Mosaic, which have decided to continue this legacy. The principal goal is to encourage Antigua to be developed as a cultural city. For that reason, a full and diverse agenda is available throughout the year. Therefore you will be able to enjoy activities such as alternative film festivals, museum circuits, lectures, art exhibitions, music events, workshops, drama, dance, and opera; many of them in scenic locations such as old convents and church ruins. These settings are admired not only by the attending audience but also by national and foreign artists performing inside these locations. Most of these events are planned for the last hours in the evening up to 10 pm. Thus there is no excuse to stop enjoying this city. As a part of this experience, we recommend that you walk the main streets where you will find small and enchanting bars and restaurants with a variety of menus and prices. Possibly, your walk will coincide with an outdoor cultural activity on the pedestrian way in the city, the Quinta Avenida Norte (Fifth North Avenue ), which is also well known as "Calle del Arco" (Street of the Arch). Continue your walk by Plaza Central where you may admire the lighted buildings and observe the richness of facades, as well as the splendor of La Fuente de las Sirenas, designed by the Superior Architect of the City, Diego de Porres. Sitting on a bench, on a quiet night, listening to the whispering water, you will understand the feeling of the poet: "... you arrive to Antigua , not to discover the poetry but to face it."