The 7 Most Interesting Facts about San Juan

San Juan is one of the oldest cities in North America, and the capital of Puerto Rico. It boasts a rich history, a vibrant culture, and breathtaking landmarks that attract millions of tourists every year. Here are the 7 most interesting facts about San Juan that make it a must-visit destination.

1. San Juan was founded in 1521

San Juan was founded by Spanish colonizers in 1521, making it one of the oldest cities in North America. The name San Juan comes from Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of the city.

2. It has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites

San Juan boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the historic forts of San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal, which were built by the Spanish in the 16th and 17th centuries to protect the city from invaders. These forts are stunning examples of military architecture and engineering.

3. The city has a vibrant cultural scene

San Juan has a rich and diverse cultural scene, with a mixture of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino cultures. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the San Sebastian Street Festival, the largest street party in Puerto Rico.

4. San Juan is home to the oldest governor’s mansion in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere

San Juan is home to La Fortaleza, the oldest house designated as the residence of a governor in the Western Hemisphere. Built in the 16th century, La Fortaleza has served as the official residence of Puerto Rico’s governor since 1846.

5. The Bacardi Rum Distillery is located in San Juan

The Bacardi Rum Distillery, one of the most famous rum brands in the world, is located in San Juan. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and see how the famous rum is made.

6. San Juan has a bioluminescent bay

San Juan has one of the few bioluminescent bays in the world, where microorganisms light up the water at night. Visitors can take a kayak tour to see this stunning natural phenomenon up close.

7. The city is the birthplace of salsa music

San Juan is known as the birthplace of salsa music, a popular genre that originated in the 1960s. The city hosts numerous salsa festivals throughout the year, attracting music lovers from around the world.

In conclusion, San Juan is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landmarks, and natural wonders that make it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, music, or nature, San Juan has something to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is the capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island that attracts millions of tourists each year. San Juan is a great place to experience the vibrant culture, history, and stunning natural beauty of this enchanted island. To help you make the most of your visit, here are some insider tips and recommendations for things to do, see, and taste in San Juan.

Local Attractions

San Juan has a plethora of stunning attractions that will leave you spellbound. Some of the most popular ones include:

El Morro Fort

El Morro Fort, also known as the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous attractions in San Juan. This six-level fortress dates back to the 16th century and was built to protect the city’s harbor from attacks by pirates and other European powers. Once you’re here, you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and explore the underground tunnels, dungeons, and barracks.

Paseo de la Princesa

This picturesque promenade located in Old San Juan is a perfect place to take a stroll. The avenue is filled with street vendors selling local souvenirs, food, and drinks.

Castillo San Cristobal

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Castillo San Cristobal, is an enormous fort built on the eastern edge of the Old San Juan wall. The fort was constructed to protect the city against foreign invaders and still standing with pride today. It is the largest fortification ever built in the New World.

Dining Spots

San Juan is a culinary paradise with many top-notch restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Here are our top picks for dining spots in San Juan:

La Casita Blanca

La Casita Blanca is a cozy restaurant located in the Santurce district that serves traditional Puerto Rican food. What sets it apart is its home-cooked flavor, giving you a taste of the authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. Make sure you try their Mofongo, a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine made out of mashed plantains.

El Jibarito

Located in the heart of Old San Juan, El Jibarito is a dining spot that specializes in Puerto Rican Creole cuisine. The restaurant is known for its Mofongo and Criollo dishes.

La Placita de Santurce

If you’re looking for something more casual, La Placita in the Santurce district is a great spot to hang out and enjoy the local cuisine. The area has many restaurants and bars offering an excellent variety of Puerto Rican street food and drinks.

Cultural Experiences

San Juan has a rich and diverse culture that attracts people from all over the world. Here are some cultural experiences to try in San Juan:

Casa Blanca Museum & Tours

The Casa Blanca Museum offers a tour of the 16th-century estate of the first governor of Puerto Rico, Juan Ponce de León. The museum is filled with artwork, antique furniture, and artifacts from the colonial era, providing a glimpse into Puerto Rican history.

Puerto Rican Art Museum

The Puerto Rican Art Museum showcases a collection of artwork from Puerto Rican artists from the 19th century to the present day. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and installations that offer a unique perspective on Puerto Rican culture and history.

San Juan Carnival

The San Juan Carnival is an annual event that celebrates Puerto Rican culture and heritage. The festival features colorful parades, music, dances, and performances that showcase the island’s vibrant culture.

Local History

San Juan is steeped in history, with many historic landmarks and buildings that tell the story of the island’s past. Here are some historical places to visit in San Juan:

Cathedral of San Juan Bautista

The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is a historic church dating back to the 16th century. The church has undergone numerous renovations over the years but still retains its original Gothic architecture.

Casa del Libro

The Casa del Libro is a historic building that once served as a bookstore, library, and printing house. The building has now been converted into a museum that showcases the history of the book and printing in Puerto Rico.

Fort San Juan de la Cruz (El Cañuelo)

Fort San Juan de la Cruz, also known as El Cañuelo, is a fortification located on a small island off the coast of San Juan. The fort dates back to the 16th century and was built to protect the entrance to San Juan Bay.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

San Juan is an exciting city with many attractions and places to visit, but there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few suggestions for off-the-beaten-path things to do in San Juan:

Explore the murals in Santurce

Santurce is filled with street art and murals that give you a unique perspective on the local culture and history.

Visit the Casa Bacardí Visitors Center

The Casa Bacardí Visitors Center is a great place to learn about rum and its history in the Caribbean. The visitors’ center offers tours of the distillery and tastings of Bacardi’s finest rums.

Hike in the El Yunque National Forest

The El Yunque National Forest is a rainforest located about 40 minutes from San Juan. The forest is filled with hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the lush greenery and stunning waterfalls.

In conclusion, San Juan is an excellent destination for anyone looking for a mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Make sure you try the local food, explore the historic landmarks, and take in the vibrant culture of this enchanting Caribbean city.