The Franciscans had the workers build themselves this dwelling. The Casa Vieja originally had two floors and housed 12 families. The sleeping rooms were on the second level, reached by a pole and rope ladder.
The fireplaces are built into corners of the adobe walls, and while there is electricity, earlier in the dim cool house windows let in the light. The second floor has been demolished during this century, and the main floor is now below street level.
The skeleton on display was unearthed in the house. It is thought to be the remains of a young soldier who bought a love charm from two witches who lived in the house. When the lady married another, the young man demanded his money back. Incensed at his lack of respect, the women cut off his head with his own sword and bounced the head into the street outside.
Now the Casa Vieja is a tea shop with tours of the historic building supporting the business, or possibly the other way around.