Puerto Rico’s first governor, a controversial conquistador, is recognized with a statue in the heart of historic Old San Juan.
Remember the complexities of Puerto Rico’s history by visiting the statue of Juan Ponce de Leon. The statue is an instantly recognizable landmark in Old San Juan and stands outside a 16th-century church and several museums. Stop for photos of the monument before exploring the square and surrounding area.
See the explorer dressed in conquistador’s armor, the outfit of Spanish colonial forces. Ponce de Leon arrived in Puerto Rico with Christopher Columbus in the late 15th century. The richness of the land made him come back to settle here. He was set up as governor of Puerto Rico by the king of Spain and he exploited both the land and its people to mine the resources of the island. His life ended in Florida while he was searching for the mythical Fountain of Youth.
Admire the detail in the statue, which comes with its own story. It was installed in Puerto Rico in 1882, forged from the cannons of a failed British attack on the city in 1797. The first governor is standing in an explorer’s pose, pointing to an unknown destination as he continues to find new lands.
Visit the buildings around the edge of the statue. The Museum of Our African Roots traces the impact of African culture on Puerto Rico through photographs, artworks and artifacts. The Pablo Casals Museum celebrates the work of one of Puerto Rico’s most celebrated musicians.
Step into San José Church, which was built by Dominican friars in 1532. The monument features remnants of its medieval splendor on the vaulted ceilings and walls.
To see more sights associated with Ponce de Leon, visit the San Juan Cathedral. The 16th-century building houses the tomb of the governor.
The statue of Ponce de Leon stands in the northwest corner of Old San Juan, near a metered parking lot. Visit the statue while walking around this region. The Museum of Art and History, the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery and the San Juan Gate are all within 10 minutes of the statue on foot.
