Hermitage of San Antonio de Padua de la Tuna

The stone remains of the hermitage stand near the Guajataca River, featuring architectural elements from the Spanish colonial period in Puerto Rico.

Spanish Governor José Antonio de Mendizábal y Azares authorized the construction of this religious structure around 1725 to support the growing local population.

The hermitage's name combines Saint Anthony of Padua with La Tuna, referring to the prickly pear cactus plants that grew abundantly in the area.

Visitors can access the archaeological site directly from Puerto Rico's main PR-2 road, with informational signs explaining the structure's significance.

By the late 1700s, the hermitage served as the center of a thriving community with sixty houses and 1,200 residents before relocation to coastal Isabela.

Location: Isabela

Location: Puerto Rico

Website: https://sites.google.com/site/corporacionmabodamacainc/home

GPS coordinates: 18.47861,-66.96339

Latest update: March 4, 2025 17:45