Mayagüez

Mayagüez is a city on the western coast of Puerto Rico situated between the Caribbean Sea and mountain ranges. It encompasses several neighborhoods and features a naturally deep harbor that serves the region.

The city was founded in 1760 as Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Mayagüez and gained city status in 1877. A major earthquake in 1918 caused significant destruction, but reconstruction followed shortly after.

The Plaza Colón displays a statue of Christopher Columbus surrounded by 16 bronze figures depicting scenes from Spanish colonial times. This square serves as a gathering point where locals and visitors experience the city's connection to its past.

The city connects to San Juan through highways, making travel between these locations straightforward. Several educational facilities are located here, and the area is relatively accessible for visitors.

A research station operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture holds the largest collection of tropical plants in the Western Hemisphere. This collection supports scientific research and attracts visitors interested in tropical plant diversity.

Location: Puerto Rico

Inception: 1760

Capital city: Mayagüez barrio-pueblo

Elevation above the sea: 21 m

Shares border with: Añasco, Cabo Rojo, Hormigueros, Maricao, Las Marías, San Germán

GPS coordinates: 18.20111,-67.13972

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:20