An important and picturesque element of what remains of the Spanish influence on Guam are the three stone arches which formed the main entrance to a building, the Almacen or arsenal.

The Almacen was built in 1736. The Spaniards stored munitions on the first level while the second floor served as a soldiers barracks and later as a hospital. When the Americans took over, the first floor was utilized as the pay master's office and the post office. Use of the second level as a hospital and barracks continued until it was converted into classrooms. In 1930, the Almacen was declared unsafe and subsequently demolished. The Governor's Garden, Siesta Shed, and Fountain replaced the Almacen in 1933.

At the rear of the garden near the wall is the original stone floor of the Almacen. The floor was covered with earth when the garden was built but has been partially excavated during archaeological explorations.

The original carved Spanish crest is incorporated into the keystone on the front of the central arch.

Go to Plaza de Espana or Guam Pictures