Monterey (population 32,900) was officially founded by Spanish Conquistadors in 1770, and served as the original capital of the state of California. Historic buildings and homes of the Old Town have inspired authors and artists alike. The stage for the great sardine and anchovy rush of the early 20th century, highlights include a natural harbor and John Steinbeck's world-famous Cannery Row. Equally as famed is The Monterey Bay Aquarium, a hi-tech facility dedicated to the marine life preserve above which it is perched.