Cockburn Town has been the capital city of the surrounding 40 islands since 1766. Its buildings are a time capsule of British West Indies and especially Bermudian architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Most have colorful storm shutters to protect against high winds and wooden jalousie windows to let in the gentle ocean breezes. Along the shoreline are these pastel-colored kiosks constructed from coral and stones. The merchants specialize in local crafts and souvenirs.