Interesting Museum and suprisingly good disabled access for a historic building
4
4
Date of visit: March 2017
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Good
Historic house, which was the former Governors' House which was reputedly Christopher Columbus visited. The house has been transformed into a museum about the his voyages and the "discovery" of America.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
The museum is housed in a former home with traditional architecture with an open air courtyard. There is a ramp at the entrance to the museum. The museum itself is on 2 floors with the upper floor being accessible by stairs or a lift. There was a basement room, which is open to the public but I was unable to access due to the stairs. There was another lift from the courtyard to the shop/ exit. Then one shallow step from the shop to street level. Overall I was very impressed and surprised with the installation of lift given that it is a historic property. There were cards in each of the rooms in different languages telling you about the things in the room but I was not aware if they did large print or braille.
Parking & Transport
Good
The museum is in a pedestrianised area in the middle of Vegueta (the Old Town). I walked from my hotel so unable to comment about public transport.
Accessible Toilets
0Sorry, there were toilets and I honestly can't remember if they were disabled accessible or not.
Staff
Good
There were staff at the entrance to the building and by the entrance to the exhibition. Both were friendly and helpful. The person by the entrance to the exhibition was also standing near the lift and pointed it out to me when he noticed my crutch.
Additional Information
The exhibition focuses on sea voyages. In the first room is a wonderful reconstruction of the interior of an old ship and is in the adjoining rooms are maps, models of ships and information boards. The courtyards are pretty and there are some macaws.
