City Wall – La Muralla

City Wall – “La Muralla”

San Juan, Puerto Rico

City Wall – La Muralla
City Wall – “La Muralla”

The City Wall of San Juan, also known as “La Muralla”, is a defensive wall system that surrounds the western end of the Islet of San Juan, site of the historic Old San Juan district in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This defensive wall system was built between the 16th and 20th centuries to protect the city and the Bay of San Juan, a highly strategic point in the Caribbean.

The wall is approximately 4 kilometers long and is composed of rock, rubble, and mortar. It has a height of up to 12 meters and is topped with bastions and watchtowers. Along the wall are five gates that allowed access to the city: the Puerta de San Juan, the Puerta de San José, the Puerta de Santa Rosa, the Puerta de San Justo, and the Puerta de Santiago.

The wall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Puerto Rico. It can be walked or biked, and offers stunning views of the city and the bay.

The wall has witnessed many historical events, from its construction in the 16th century to the present day. It has protected the city from pirate attacks, military attacks, and natural disasters. The wall has also been a symbol of the resistance and determination of the Puerto Rican people.

In 1983, the San Juan Wall was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This recognition highlights the historical and cultural importance of the wall, and makes it a treasure that must be preserved for future generations.

Today, the wall is a popular tourist destination. It offers stunning views of the city and the bay, and is a great place for walking or biking.

The wall has five gates:

  • The Puerta de San Juan, the main entrance to the city.
  • The Puerta de San José, on the north side of the city.
  • The Puerta de Santa Rosa, on the north side of the city.
  • The Puerta de San Justo, on the south side of the city.
  • The Puerta de Santiago, on the east side of the city.

Here are some interesting facts about the City Wall of San Juan:

  • It is the oldest and most complete defensive wall system in the Americas.
  • It was built by slaves and laborers, and took over 200 years to complete.
  • The wall has 15 bastions, which are small forts that were used to defend the wall.
  • The wall has 17 gunports, which are openings where cannons could be fired.
  • The wall has 5 gates, which were the only ways into the city.

The City Wall of San Juan is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Spanish engineers who built it. It is also a reminder of the important role that San Juan played in the history of the Caribbean.

Address and Map:

Physical address:
City Wall – “La Muralla”
FV8J+354 Caleta de San Juan
San Juan, PR, 00902

The wall is a popular tourist destination. It offers stunning views of the city and the bay, and is a great place to walk or bike.

Gallery:

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