San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico, a popular island tourist destination in the Caribbean. The city of San Juan was founded in 1521 and is known as La Ciudad Amurallada, which means the walled city. San Juan is the largest natural port in the Caribbean and the second oldest city in America. The city is a major port and tourist center and the oldest city under the flag of the United States.
The Spanish made San Juan the focal point of commerce during the 16th century and fortified the entire city, now known as Old San Juan. The city has now expanded beyond its walled limits and incorporates the suburbs of Miramar, Santurce, Condado, Hato Rey, and Río Piedras. Today, San Juan is the largest oil processing center, as well as being known for the refining, processing and distillation of sugar. Cement, pharmaceutical and tobacco industries have been established, making it one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean and the second largest seaport in the area, after New York City. San Juan is also the financial capital of Puerto Rico with many American banks and corporations that have established offices there in recent times.
The city of Old San Juan was originally a military stronghold. Now it is a charming residential and commercial district with streets paved with blue stone cobblestones. More than 400 carefully restored 16th century Spanish colonial buildings line the city. Tourists seeking an experience of old-world charm flock to the city each year.
The Plaza de San José is lined with several historic buildings and is a favorite meeting place for many residents and tourists. The bronze statue of Ponce de León stands in the center of the square.
The Parque de las Palomas or Pigeon Park, offers an impressive view of the port and the mountains of the city. The park overlooks the restored La Princesa Jail, now an art gallery.
Begun in 1540, the Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is a six-level fortress that was finally completed in 1589. The fort is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, and ramps. Its 18-foot-thick wall rises 140 feet above sea level; it provided a formidable defense against 16th century attacks. The fort is dotted with small circular sentry boxes called ‘Garitas’, now a national symbol.
The Capilla del Cristo or Capilla del Cristo was built in 1753. The altar and the beautiful Campeche paintings inside can be seen through the glass doors of the church.
For those who want to really experience the charm of San Juan, there is nothing like a leisurely walking tour through the narrow and steep streets of the city. San Juan is a picturesque city that combines historic charm with modern vision and comfort.
