Miscellaneous
The city of Ponce in Puerto Rico has a long history, and is thus known for its many historical attractions and its superb architecture. Many of these structures can be found in the Ponce Historic Zone, which includes La Alhambra, the country's first upper-class suburban development. Located in this area is the Fernando Luis Toro Casa, which was built in 1927.
Read more..
Miscellaneous
Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on 9 March 1940, Raúl Rafael Carlos Juliá y Arcelay became a well-known actor, who was involved in various humanitarian activities. Juliá was inspired to become an actor when he watched Errol Flynn in “The Adventures of Robin Hood”. During his school years and while studying he would take part in and organise plays. Raúl Juliá was finally discovered by Orson Bean while performing at a nightclub in San Juan. He was encouraged by Bean to move to New York City in 1964, where he soon began acting in plays.
Read more..
Miscellaneous
Francisco Arriví became known as the Father of the Puerto Rican Theater, and was often referred to as Paco. Born on 24 July 1915 in the San Juan district of Santurce, Francisco Arriví's fascination with literature was evident early on, reading whatever he could lay his hands on from the age of six. He found even more inspiration in the theater, and his grandmother played a vital role in this part of his life, as he would accompany her to watch theater productions every week. It wasn't long before he created his own stage in his back garden to entertain his friends, and his love for literature and theater set him on course for greatness and fame.
Read more..
Miscellaneous
Born on 18 August 1934, in Carolina, Roberto Clemente was the youngest of his seven siblings. His father, Don Melchor, was a hard working man, but money was very tight, forcing Clemente to start work at a young age. He showed a passion for baseball at an early age, playing at every opportunity he could get. Roberto Marin saw talent in the young Clemente while watching him play in the Barrio San Anton and recruited him to play softball for the Sello Rojo team – a small start that would lead to a big future.
Read more..
Miscellaneous
The name might not sound familiar, but José Campeche was a visual artist from Puerto Rico who not only gained local respect but also international fame. He is said to be the founder of visual painting in Puerto Rico. José Campeche became one of the most important painters of the Americas and has left behind a legacy that is still marveled at today. Many still name José Campache as one of the most brilliant and talented rococo artists who ever lived.
Read more..
Miscellaneous
Most of us think of tropical beaches and palm trees when we drink a piña colada, but few know where this tasty drink actually originated from. Over the years, the drink has been modernized and each country has their own way of serving piña coladas. This rum based cocktail is actually Puerto Rico's official drink and has been since 1978. There are various stories in regard to who and how the first piña colada came into existence, but one common fact is that it originated in Puerto Rico.
Read more..
Miscellaneous
Puerto Rico has a wonderful variety of bird life, luring avid bird watchers to the country every year. There are a number of birds that are endemic to Puerto Rico, which makes sighting them extremely exciting. One such a bird is the Puerto Rican Tody. Locals refer to the small and colorful bird as the San Pedirito, translated to Little Saint Peter. It is protected by conservationists, who are working to ensure the survival of this bird that has made the entire Puerto Rico archipelago its home.
Read more..
Miscellaneous
Rita Moreno is a living Puerto Rican legend who is not only admired by her fellow countrymen but the world over. She made a great impact on the entertainment industry and is respected by her fans and peers as she is the only dancer, actress and singer of Hispanic origin to have been awarded an Oscar Award, a Tony Award, an Emmy Award and a Grammy Award, and became the second performer from Puerto Rico to be honored with an Academy Award. Riota Moreno’s achievements are remarkable, and she still graces the screens for guest appearances today.
Read more..