Plaza Colón, Historic square in the center of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
Plaza Colón is a historic square in the center of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a pedestrian zone. A fountain and a statue of Christopher Columbus stand at its center, with marble paving and shaded trees throughout.
The square was redesigned after a major fire in 1841 that destroyed much of the city. The Columbus statue was made in Barcelona and placed here in 1896.
The square connects two important buildings: the church of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria and the city hall of Mayagüez. The bronze lamps around the plaza are each held by a figure dressed in local clothing with turbans and veils, a detail that catches the eye of most visitors.
The square sits in the heart of Mayagüez, within walking distance of shops, cafes, and other historic buildings. Since cars are not allowed through the area, it is easy to walk around without worrying about traffic.
A monument honoring the founders of Mayagüez was created by local artist Regino Cabassa in 1944, though World War II made sourcing the metal for it extremely difficult. The work was completed despite those challenges and placed in the square.
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