National Theatre of El Salvador

The oldest theatre in Central America, this ornate playhouse in downtown San Salvador opened in 1917 after fire destroyed an earlier hall. Designed by a French architect in a French Renaissance style, its interior features a frescoed dome, red-and-gold boxes and a grand horseshoe auditorium. Restored after decades of neglect and earthquake damage, it again stages plays, ballet and concerts. The building anchors the revitalised historic centre near the cathedral and Plaza Morazan.