Five centuries of history
San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, celebrates the 500th anniversary of its founding this June. Visitors to the city – the oldest established by Europeans in the United States to be constantly inhabited – can follow the anniversary route through very important monuments in the historic centre, Old San Juan, a World Heritage Site since 1983.
Fly to Puerto Rico direct from Madrid from only 17,000 Avios.
Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas, the former Plaza Mayor in San Juan, as it was called in colonial times, remains the city’s main square, and is the perfect place to start the route.
Catedral de San Juan Bautista
As well as being one of the country’s largest religious buildings, the San Juan Bautista Cathedral is also its oldest church and the second oldest church on both American continents
Convento de Santo Tomás de Aquino
This huge monastery, Convento de Santo Tomás de Aquino, was founded in 1532 by a group of Dominicans, who are recognised as the first religious order to settle on the island.
La Rogativa
The sculpture presiding over the square has given its name to the space, La Rogativa. It’s in memory of a 1797 procession of religious women who supported the Spanish army defending the city against a British blockade.
Iglesia de San José
Recently completely renovated after a comprehensive 20-year effort, the church of San José, built in 1532 is a true architectural, and not just religious, gem.
Museo Casa Blanca
Dating from the early 16th century, Museo Casa Blanca is the oldest fortification in San Juan and the residence of Juan Ponce de León, the first ruler of Puerto Rico.
El Morro
The spectacular fortification El Morro was built over 250 years – from the 16th to the 18th centuries – to protect the city from maritime attacks. Today, it continues to offer unique views.
Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas, the former Plaza Mayor in San Juan, as it was called in colonial times, remains the city’s main square, and is the perfect place to start the route.
