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The Old City today is a charming residential and commercial district, with
more than 400 carefully restored 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings.
The main attractions include the imposing forts of El Morro and Castello de
San Cristóbel, both of which are now administered by the National Parks
Service; several plazas, all lined with old buildings, including Plaza de Armas,
featuring four 100-year-old statues of the four seasons; and a series of parks,
such as Parque de las Palomas, situated on top of the city wall with a magnificent
view of the city, harbour, and surrounding mountains.
San Juan boasts a wide array of historic buildings, museums, and cultural centres.
The Centro de Bellas Artes is the largest of its kind in the Caribbean, offering
concerts, plays and opera. The San Juan cathedral, restored in 1917, is a rare
example of medieval architecture in the New World. It contains the tomb of the
island’s first governor and the relic of San Pio, a Roman martyr.
Just outside of Old San Juan is the beach and resort area, which includes Condado,
Miramar, Ocean Park and Isla Verde. The Casa de los Contrafuertes
is a traditional Spanish-style home, dating back to the early 18th century.
The Botánico (Botanical Garden) is located in the Río Piedras.
The Botanical Garden displays the native flora of Puerto Rico, with over 200
species of tropical and sub-tropical plants. Another natural beauty is the Piñones
Reserve, a sub-tropical forest with mangroves, sea turtle nesting sites
and beautiful beaches.
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