Admin
September 6, 2022
If you’re looking for a taste of history in Puerto Rico, then Old San Juan is the place to be. This vibrant district is home to some of the island’s most famous historical sites. Here are ten must-see attractions in Old San Juan:
1. Castillo de San Cristóbal: Situated on a high promontory overlooking the bay, this fortress was built to guard the entrance to the harbor of San Juan and protect the city from land-based attacks. Spanning over 27 acres, it is the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the New World. The castle is home to the famous Garita del Diablo, which has been at the center of many military stories and tales on the island.
2. La Fortaleza: La Fortaleza means “The Fortress,” and it was certainly intended as such when it was completed in 1540 as part of a massive construction effort to secure the island’s defenses. It didn’t do so well, falling to the Earl of Cumberland in 1598 and the Dutch Commander Boudewyn Hendrick in 1625. In 1846, it was remodeled and converted for full-time use as the governor’s house. The building, also known as El Palacio de Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina Palace), has housed no less than 170 governors of Puerto Rico.
3. El Castillo San Felipe del Morro, better known as El Morro, is a large fortification constructed by the Spaniards in the Caribbean during the 16th century. This fortress, which features six staggered levels, including a barracks, prison, and storerooms, was built to protect Santiago from sea assaults and still has some of the original cannons facing the water. An enemy has never conquered El Morro in its history.
4.The Puerta de Aguas, or the Puerta de San Juan (San Juan Gate), is one of the most iconic entrance ways into Old San Juan. The 16-foot tall, 20-foot thick gate has withstood centuries and welcomes visitors to Paseo La Princesa. Just above the gateway is an inscription that reads “Benedictus Oui Venit In Nomine Domini” which translates to “Welcome those who come in the name of God.” This message reflects Puerto Rico’s Catholic roots. It is said that when sailors arrived from Spain, they would march through the gate and up to the Catedral de San Juan Bautista to thank God for a safe passage.
5. Casa Blanca: This historic house was built in 1523 and is the oldest extant structure in Puerto Rico. The house was home to several governors of Puerto Rico throughout its history. Today, the house is open to the public as a museum, and visitors can tour the grounds and learn about the house’s history and its occupants. It was created with the intention of becoming the governor’s mansion for Puerto Rico’s first ruler, Juan Ponce de León. Unfortunately, Ponce de Leon died before he could move in, but his descendants were allowed to stay there.
6. Iglesia de San José: This church was founded in 1521 and is the oldest church in Puerto Rico. The church has a baroque facade and an interior decorated with religious art. The church is open to the public for Masses and other religious services.
7. Plaza de Armas: This is the oldest square in Puerto Rico, dating back to 1521. The square was the site of many important events in Puerto Rican history, such as the proclamation of independence from Spain in 1868. Today, the square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
8. Catedral de San Juan Bautista: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is Puerto Rico’s most magnificent religious edifice and one of its most important. San Juan Bautista is the archdiocese’s headquarters, as well as the seat of the archbishopric of Puerto Rico. It’s also the Western Hemisphere’s second-oldest church and the continent’s oldest building on U.S. soil. The church’s history dates back to 1521 when Spanish colonization began on the island. The current structure isn’t the original church; a hurricane destroyed it in 1873.
The church as you see it today dates back to 1540, but even then, the Gothic facade wasn’t completed until centuries later. Like anything else double-digit centuries old, the cathedral has been through its rough patches–robberies and pillagings galore, most notable in 1598 when Cumberland’s troops sacked the city.
9. Teatro Tapia: Known as the municipal coliseum, it was built in 1832 and named after Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, the father of Puerto Rican literature. It is not only the oldest permanent theater in Puerto Rico but also among the oldest free-standing stages still being used in the United States. The theatre hosts various cultural events, such as concerts, plays, and ballets. The theatre has a neoclassical facade and an interior decorated with period furniture and artwork.
10. Capilla del Cristo: The Capilla del Cristo, or “Chapel of Christ,” is one of the city’s most recognizable features. This little chapel was unusually erected on top of the city’s walls, which was uncommon in colonial times. According to legend, two men were racing their horses down the road when one fell off the cliff and survived. For this reason, a sanctuary honoring the saints of health was built. The altar is made of embossed silver, and two José Campeche paintings add to the décor.
Old San Juan is a treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be explored. With so many amazing historical sites, it can be hard to choose a favorite. Whether you’re interested in museums, forts, or churches, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Make sure you visit all of the top attractions to get a true feel for Puerto Rican history and culture. What’s your favorite historic site in Old San Juan?
