The best way to absorb the distinctive sights and sounds of the lively capital, St.John's, is on foot. In this way you will discover its network of streets, its pedestrian areas and its historic and commercial districts. Shop duty free in Heritage Quay's luxury stores and boutiques and further south find the historic area of Redcliffe Quay which was formerlythe site of the town's slave market. Today it is a peaceful and shady oasis overlooking the sea and the ideal place to rest from the heat and activity of St.John's. To the north is Long Street and here you will find the Court House which contains the museum of Antigua and Barbuda. The museum exhibits archaeological remains of the Siboney people who lived on the islands around 4000 years ago and were the antecedents of the Arawak and Carib Indians. A stroll along Church Street brings you to the Cathedral which was originally built in wood in 1681, then in brick in 1720 and finally in grey stone in 1843. The interior is American pine to resist earthquakes and hurricanes. If you like to savour the local culture, don't miss the market. The best time to visit is friday and saturday morning when it is at its most vibrant and well stocked with fruit and local produce. Next to the fruit market is the Arts and Crafts market also worth a visit. The market is of course at the end of Market street to the far south of the city.
