Plaza del Quinto Centenario, Modern commemorative plaza in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Plaza del Quinto Centenario is a modern park in Old San Juan featuring a central monument called El Tótem Telúrico as its focal point, with benches, stairs, and open areas throughout. The space offers direct views of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and various seating options for visitors to rest and observe the surroundings.
Constructed in 1992, this plaza marks the location where Spanish colonizers established the first settlement in Puerto Rico 500 years earlier. The site commemorates the arrival of European settlers in the region.
The plaza functions as a central meeting spot where you can see residents and visitors gathering for traditional celebrations, live music, and community events throughout the year. It reflects how locals use public space for everyday social life.
The plaza sits at the northern edge of Old San Juan and connects easily to several historic landmarks nearby. Visitors can navigate the open areas and steps at their own pace to view the space from different angles.
The central monument El Tótem Telúrico combines black granite with water elements that symbolize the Atlantic Ocean's role in connecting the Old World with the Americas. These design features quietly tell a story of cultural exchange visible to anyone visiting the space.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
