The Beauty of Old San Juan -- San Juan Puerto Rico 2026

The Beauty of Old San Juan -- San Juan Puerto Rico 2026 Old San Juan is the second oldest city in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest under U.S. jurisdiction. Founded in 1521, this historic district spans 17 square blocks filled with colonial architecture, centennial blue cobblestone streets, and massive centuries-old Spanish fortifications.The Early Years & Name ReversalChristopher Columbus: Landed on the island in 1493 and named it San Juan Bautista.Caparra (1508): Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León founded the first settlement, which was later abandoned due to hostile surroundings and poor access to water.The Relocation (1521): The settlement was moved to the strategic coastal islet that is now Old San Juan. It was originally named Puerto Rico ("rich port")