Aguada, Puerto Rico

Sotomayor's Villa

Aguada (ah-GWAH-dah) known as “El Pueblo Playero,” “La Ciudad del Vaticano,” “La Villa Sotomayor,” and “La Villa de San Francisco de Asís,” is a historic and cultural destination in western Puerto Rico that captivates both residents and visitors. Founded in 1510 by Don Cristóbal de Sotomayor, lieutenant of Juan Ponce de León, Aguada is the second-oldest settlement on the island, after Caparra. Its famous saying, “Por Aguada fue,” reflects the belief that Christopher Columbus arrived in Puerto Rico through its shores, marking a unique place in Caribbean history.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and bordering Aguadilla, Rincón, Añasco, and Moca, Aguada combines the beauty of its beaches with the fertility of its soils in the Western Coastal Plains. The Boquerón point in the Carrizal barrio and the hills of San Francisco Mountain, the starting point of the Central Mountain Range, offer landscapes that blend plains, rivers, and elevations that define its topography. Additionally, the municipality contains deposits of manganese and small amounts of copper, testifying to its natural wealth.

For centuries, Aguada’s economy centered on sugarcane cultivation and the operation of the Central Coloso, which operated from 1875 to 2000. Livestock farming, timber production, and fishing were also key pillars of its development. Today, Aguada has evolved into a diversified economy: small businesses, foreign-capital factories, and tourism projects such as “El Sueño del Pescador” drive the revitalization of the coastal area and local economic growth.

Aguada is not only history and economy but also living culture. The San Francisco de Asís Parish, the Ermita del Espinar, and the Aguada Museum bear witness to its rich religious and cultural heritage. Each year, events such as the Handicraft Fair and the Puerto Rico Discovery Festival celebrate local tradition, while its beaches—Playa Aguada, Playa El Mameyito, Balneario Pico de Piedra, Playa Espinar, and Playa Río Grande—invite relaxation, recreation, and sustainable tourism.

With an approximate population of 37,500 inhabitants, Aguada presents itself as a municipality that combines history, culture, natural beauty, and economic development, establishing itself as a destination that honors its past while looking toward the future.

Foundation:

Aguada, a municipality located in the western region of Puerto Rico, was founded in 1510 by Don Cristóbal de Sotomayor, lieutenant of Don Juan Ponce de León. By orders of Ponce de León, Sotomayor established the first settlement at the site known as “La Aguada,” naming it “Villa de Sotomayor.” This event makes Aguada the second-oldest settlement on the island, after Caparra.

In 1511, the village was attacked and destroyed by Taíno indigenous people. That same year, King Ferdinand of Aragon ordered the construction of a monastery on the island, which gave rise to the Ermita del Espinar. The presence of Franciscan friars in the area led to the village being renamed “San Francisco de Asís de la Aguada.” The hermitage was completed in 1516.

In 1526, King Charles I of Spain officially established the permanent settlement of Aguada through a royal decree. However, in 1529, the hermitage was destroyed in an attack by Carib forces, resulting in the death of five of the eight Franciscan friars. This tragic event marked the first martyrdom in Puerto Rico and possibly in the New World.

On September 17, 1692, King Charles II of Spain issued a royal decree elevating Aguada to the status of “Parroquia Colectiva con Teniente a Guerra,” granting the village greater administrative autonomy. The first Teniente a Guerra of Aguada was Juan López de Segura.

Over the centuries, Aguada has witnessed numerous historical and cultural events that have shaped its identity. Today, the municipality is recognized for its rich historical heritage, colonial architecture, and vibrant community life.

Location:

The municipality of Aguada is situated in the western region of Puerto Rico. It is bounded to the north by the Atlantic Ocean and the municipality of Aguadilla; to the south by Rincón and Añasco; to the east by Moca and Aguadilla; and to the west by Rincón. Its strategic location along the northern coast makes Aguada an important historical and tourist destination, offering easy access to beaches, rivers, and the mountainous areas of western Puerto Rico.

Area:

80 km² (30.86 mi²)

Population:

38,136 inhabitants (2020 Census)
The population has slightly decreased from the 2000 Census, which recorded 42,042 inhabitants, reflecting recent demographic trends in western Puerto Rico.

Population Density:

1,236 inhabitants/km² (3,199 inhabitants/mi²)

Demonym:

Aguadeños

Wards: Aguada, Puerto Rico

Censo 2020: Population by Wards - Aguada	Habitants
Aguada Pueblo	1,210
Asomante	3,268
Atalaya	1,900
Carrizal	1,063
Cerro Gordo	2,930
Cruces	1,655
Espinar	1,569
Guanábano	921
Guaniquilla	2,846
Guayabo	2,961
Jagüey	1,926
Lagunas	2,412
Mal Paso	2,614
Mamey	2,170
Marías	1,786
Naranjo	3,724
Piedras Blancas	3,542
Río Grande	1,164
Total	38,136

Source: Censo 2000

The total population of the municipality of Aguada, according to the 2020 Census, is 38,136 inhabitants, representing a decrease from the 42,042 inhabitants recorded in the 2000 Census.

Topography

Aguada is part of the Western Coastal Plains, characterized by fertile alluvial soils. The municipality includes some elevations, such as part of the San Francisco Mountain, which connects to the Central Mountain Range of Puerto Rico. Its terrain combines coastal plains with low hills, favoring both agriculture and urban development.

Hydrography

Aguada's hydrographic system includes:

• Culebrina River: Approximately 25 miles long, the main water source for the municipality.
• Other significant rivers: Río Ingenio, Madre Vieja, Guayabo, and Río Grande, along with several streams and smaller bodies of water that support agriculture and the local ecosystem.

Climate

• Annual Precipitation: Around 87 inches (approximately 2,210 mm)
• Average Temperature: 72°F (22°C)
• Climatic Characteristics: Tropical humid with moderate dry and rainy seasons.

Predominant Industries

Historically, the economy was based on agriculture, especially livestock and sugarcane cultivation, and manufacturing. Currently, there is growth in small businesses, tourism, and services, with some foreign-owned factories still operating.

Average Salary

Approximately $266.99 per week, according to historical data from 1998. More recent data from the Puerto Rico Department of Labor suggests that the average salary has increased, although incomes still primarily depend on retail, manufacturing, and local service jobs.

Flag:

The flag of the Villa of San Francisco de Asís de Aguada is tricolor, featuring white, red, and yellow, each with symbolic meaning tied to the municipality’s history and culture:

• White: Represents the purity of the inhabitants and the calm of the crystalline waters of the Culebrina River and the Pozos Colombinos, where it is said Christopher Columbus quenched his thirst upon arriving on the island. On the white background is a blue triangle with a white dove, symbolizing peace and the fraternal union of peoples.
• Red: Symbolizes the martyrdom of the Franciscan friars of Espinar, who suffered persecution during the early years of colonization. On the red background stands a cross, the standard of the cradle of Christianity in Puerto Rico, surrounded by the name of the municipality: Aguada.
• Yellow: Represents the joy and hospitality of Aguadeños. In the center is a star symbolizing hope and the effort of a people striving for constant progress and development.

The flag was designed by Pedro Vélez Adrovar, visually reflecting the history, faith, and cultural identity of Aguada, linking elements of its religious, geographic, and human heritage.

Coat Of Arms:

The coat of arms of the Villa of San Francisco de Asís de Aguada is the official seal of the Municipal Government of Aguada. It was granted by King Charles III through the Royal Letter of Grace on January 14, 1778, recognizing Aguada as a Villa within the island of San Juan Bautista of Puerto Rico. The coat of arms reflects history, religion, and culture, with each element carrying symbolic meaning:

• Crown: Located at the top of the shield, symbolizes the title of Muy Leal Villa (Very Loyal Town) granted by the Spanish Crown.
• Interlaced Cross: Represents the arms of the Redeemer and the patron Saint Francis, reflecting the emblem of the Order of Friars Minor of Saint Francis, conveying the message: “Peace and fraternal embrace between man and the Redeemer.”
• Sun beneath the Cross: Refers to the light that illuminates the world, suggesting that those who believe in truth and light are not blind to good.
• Five Columbian Ships: At the bottom of the shield, they represent the second voyage of Christopher Columbus, who arrived at the island on November 16, 1493, at the Guaniquilla coast, where he drank from the Pozos de la Aguada, linking the municipality to Puerto Rico’s discovery.

Official Colors and Symbolism:

• Red: Fraternal love and the passion of Aguadeños for their land.
• Gold: Represents Spanish royalty and the municipality’s historic nobility.
• Green: Symbolizes hope, fertility, and the land’s natural richness.
• Sky Blue: Represents the Creator’s royalty and the spiritual life of the people.
• White: Purity of the Redeemer and of the people, as well as respect for cultural heritage.

The coat of arms summarizes Aguada’s history, faith, and cultural heritage, highlighting its importance as one of Puerto Rico’s first settlements and the cradle of Christianity in the New World.

Points of Interest:

• Central Coloso: Former sugar mill operating from 1875 to 2000, a historical piece of Aguada’s agricultural economy.
• Ermita Espinar: Built in the 16th century by Franciscan friars, recognized as a symbol of the cradle of Christianity in Puerto Rico.
• San Francisco de Asís Church: Parish church dedicated to the town’s patron saint, a central point of religious and cultural life.
• La Cruz de Culebrinas: Historical and religious monument marking a significant site in local tradition.
• Aguada Museum: Exhibits the history, culture, and art of the municipality, including pre-Columbian, colonial, and contemporary artifacts.

Important Events:

• Craft Fair (Encounter of Carvers): October, where local artisans display and sell carvings, crafts, and traditional products.
• Puerto Rico Discovery Festival: November, commemorating Christopher Columbus’ arrival and the municipality’s colonial history.
• Patron Saint Festival: October, honoring San Francisco de Asís, featuring religious, cultural, and recreational activities.

Beaches and Recreational Areas

• Playa Aguada: Popular for local and family tourism.
• Balneario Pico de Piedra: Recreational area with visitor facilities.
• Playa Río Grande: Ideal for water sports and outdoor activities.
• Playa El Mameyito: Known for its calm waters and natural landscapes.
• Playa Espinar: Recognized for its natural beauty and tranquility.

Notable Residents of Aguada

• Juan Bautista Arrillaga Roqué: Journalist, essayist, playwright, pharmacist, and abolitionist. Director of the newspaper El Águila de Puerto Rico, he denounced Spain’s repressive policies on the island in the late 19th century. Author of Memorias de Antaño, the comedy Tierra Enferma, and the drama Los Bribones.
• Zoilo Cajigas Sotomayor: Artist known for his work in popular imagery and saint carvings. An elementary school in the urban area of Aguada (Montemar) is named after him.
• Mabel Vélez Acevedo: First female mayor of Aguada, serving from 1972 to 1976, contributing to municipal development and the political participation of women on the island.

Nombre	Grado	Teléfono	Dirección
Nivel Elemental
ANSELMO VILLARRUBIA	K-6	(787) 868-8735	PO Box 1726, P.R. 00602-1726
ANTONIO SÁNCHEZ RUIZ	K-6	(787) 868-5150	PO Box 519, P.R. 00602-0519
EUGENIO GONZÁLEZ GONZÁLEZ	K-6	(787) 868-6100	PO Box 865, P.R. 00602-0000
GREGORIO RODRÍGUEZ ORAMA	K-6	(787) 252-2594	PO Box 1442, P.R. 00602-0000
JOSÉ GONZÁLEZ RUIZ	K-6	(787) 868-5740	PO Box 7000 Suite 4, P.R. 00602-0000
JUAN LINO SANTIAGO	K-6	(787) 868-5600	PO Box 9000 Suite 660, P.R. 00602-0000
LYDIA MELÉNDEZ	K-6-EE	(787) 868-3850	PO Box 519, P.R. 00602-0000
MANUEL MORALES FELICIANO	K-6	Closed in 2011	PO Box 519, P.R. 00602-0519
MARIA L. JIMÉNEZ LÓPEZ	K-6-EE	(787) 252-2598	MSC 813 PO Box 5000, P.R. 00602-0000
PADRE PABLO GUTIÉRREZ	K-6	Closed in 2012	PO Box 865, P.R. 00602-0000
PETRA VALLE VILLANUEVA	K-6	(787) 868-5000	P O Box 519, P.R. 00602-0000
ZOILO CAJIGAS SOTOMAYOR	K-6-EE	Closed in 2010	PO Box 1242, P.R. 00602-1242
Nivel Intermedia
CENTRO VOCACIONAL ESPECIAL	EE	(787) 868-3245	PO Box 519, P.R. 00602-0519
INTERMEDIA NUEVA	7-9	(787) 868-2260	Apartado 547, P.R. 00602-0000
Nivel Secundario
ELADIO TIRADO LÓPEZ	7-12	(787) 868-2161	Box 9000 Suite 671, P.R. 00602-0000
Nivel Segunda Unidad
AQUILINO CABAN	PK-8-EE	(787) 252-4699	PO Box 9000 Suite 673, P.R. 00602-0000
SU EPIFANIO ESTRADA	K-9-EE	(787) 868-2670	PO Box 1589, P.R. 00602-0000
SU JUAN B. SOTO	K-8	(787) 868-4470	PO Box 1097, P.R. 00602-0000
SU MARTÍN HERNÁNDEZ	K-9	Closed in 2013	PO Box 519, P.R. 00602-0000
Nivel Superior
ARSENIO MARTÍNEZ	10	(787) 868-0299	PO Box 519, P.R. 00602-0000
DR. CARLOS GONZÁLEZ	10-12	(787) 868-3280	PO Box 1516, P.R. 00602-0000

Hymn:

By Rolando Acevedo Lorenzo