Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Puerto Rico in 1492 on his second voyage of discovery, and originally named it San Juan Bautista in honor of Saint John the Baptist. The name of the island's present day capital, San Juan, honors the name Columbus first gave the island. It was then settled by explorer Ponce de Leon, and the island was under Spanish possession for over four centuries.

Puerto Rico became United States territory under the Treaty of Paris, which also ended the Spanish-American War. The United States passed Law 5600 giving Puerto Rico authorization to create and approve its own constitution. The relationship between the United States and Puerto Rico is known in English as a commonwealth. There is no precise Spanish equivalent to this word; thus, it is translated as estado libre associado (literally, "freely-associated state").

Embark on a journey through the captivating tapestry of Puerto Rico's rich history, where every cobblestone street, colonial fortress, and vibrant plaza whispers tales of a bygone era.

Begin your exploration in San Juan, the island's cultural heartbeat, where the past seamlessly blends with the present. Wander through the narrow streets of Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where colorful Spanish colonial buildings stand as living relics of a bygone era. As you stroll along the weathered cobblestones, you'll encounter historic landmarks such as the imposing El Morro Fortress, guarding the entrance to San Juan Bay for over four centuries, and the elegant San Cristóbal Fortress, once the largest Spanish military complex in the Americas.

Venture beyond the bustling capital to the enchanting town of Ponce, known as the "Pearl of the South." Here, you'll discover a treasure trove of architectural gems, from the opulent Ponce Cathedral to the stately Parque de Bombas, a historic firehouse turned museum. Immerse yourself in the island's Afro-Caribbean heritage at the Museo de la Masacre de Ponce, commemorating a pivotal moment in Puerto Rico's struggle for civil rights.

Continue your odyssey through time in the lush countryside of Utuado, where the echoes of Taíno culture resonate amidst the emerald valleys and cascading waterfalls. Explore the ancient petroglyphs of Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park, a sacred site where the Taíno people once gathered to honor their ancestors and commune with the spirits of the land.

For a deeper understanding of Puerto Rico's complex history, venture to the mountain town of Lares, where the echoes of the island's struggle for independence still reverberate. Visit the Museo del Grito de Lares, housed in a colonial-era hacienda, and learn about the daring revolt that ignited the flames of rebellion against Spanish colonial rule in 1868.

Throughout your journey, savor the island's vibrant culinary heritage, a fusion of Spanish, African, and Indigenous flavors that tantalize the taste buds and reflect centuries of cultural exchange. From savory mofongo to sweet tembleque, each dish tells a story of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity.

As you bid farewell to this enchanted island, take with you not just memories of its breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, but a deeper appreciation for the enduring spirit of its people and the indelible mark they've left on the pages of history.