Walking in Old Town - San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan, known as Viejo San Juan in Spanish, is one of the oldest and most historic parts of Puerto Rico, dating back to the early 16th century. Founded in 1521 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, it served as the capital of Puerto Rico and became a key strategic military and commercial center in the Caribbean. The city’s design reflects its Spanish colonial heritage, with narrow, cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and majestic fortresses. It was originally built as a fortified city to defend against attacks by pirates and rival European powers, which led to the construction of massive structures such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal. These forts, along with the city's thick walls, made Old San Juan one of the most heavily fortified cities in the Americas.

Over the centuries, Old San Juan has played a central role in Puerto Rico's cultural and political development. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a center for Puerto Rican nationalism and social movements, especially as the island moved toward becoming a U.S. territory in 1898 after the Spanish-American War. Despite various changes in political control, Old San Juan remained a symbol of Puerto Rican identity. Today, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its preservation of historical architecture and vibrant cultural life. Its colonial-era structures are well-maintained, and the area continues to be a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into the island's rich past.