As you walk past the colorful houses lining the cobblestone streets, you’re immediately aware that San Juan is a city brimming with history. The architecture reminds me of my time in Portugal, apart from its iconic tiles. The unincorporated archipelago of Puerto Rico may technically be a territory of the United States since the Spanish-American War, but it makes you feel like you’re in a different place entirely.
Christopher Columbus stopped here in 1493 after “discovering” America before the Spanish took over, bringing with them slaves and missionaries. Catholicism is the main faith here, which you’ll see on nearly every door in town. Some have homemade shrines, others simple icons of saints or biblical scenes. This form of folk art, known as santos, was used to convert locals to Christianity.
San Juan was officially founded in 1521, making it the second oldest European established capital in the Americas after Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The city walls around the port city are some of the oldest still standing and the city is still one of the most important ports in the area. San Juan is a hub for not only tourism, but for the Caribbean’s manufacturing and commerce.
Spanish influence mixed with that of native Taíno and African slaves over the years. Dishes from Africa feature starches like yucca, plantains, and yams, particularly mofongo. The Spanish brought olives, rice, and spices, which have created modern Criollo food.
I’ve been to Puerto Rico twice and each time I’m just so struck by what an amazing island it is. It’s hard to imagine that it’s technically tied to the US as the culture is quite different.
I love San Juan. We were there a for a few days a few years ago and absolutely loved our short time in the city. We rented a car which was an interesting experience, and we also rented an apartment near Old San Juan. But the people, the architecture, and the food made the trip so enjoyable, and I’m looking forward to revisiting one day and exploring other parts of PR as well.