Multi-Enthic Cultures of Puerto Rico
Over the course of Puerto Rico's history the country has been strongly influenced by a number of different cultures. The strongest of these were Spanish and Western, but there are also a number of other cultures which have been merged with these to provide a culture which is unique to Puerto Rico.
Today you will find that not only do the inhabitants of this island enjoy a wonderfully rich and diverse culture, but they are themselves a wonderfully varied people. During the 18th century, Spanish settlers took Indian wives and these intermingled marriages brought about a massive change in the local population. Later African slaves and Chinese, German, Lebanese and French immigrants settled on the island and also became an integral part of the country’s national identity. Today you will find that not only do the people of Puerto Rico bear physical aspects of this mingling of cultures, but their unique culture does too. So come and explore the culture of Puerto Rico and discover a beautiful and colorful corner of the world.
It's immediately clear to see the Spanish history in Puerto Rico's architecture. The narrow, winding, cobblestone roads are reminiscent of Andalusia, South of Spain. San Juan is said to be home to over 400 historic sites ranging from examples of classic architecture and old military power.
It is evident that a strong infusion of arts in the history of Puerto Rico has resulted in its people developing artistic flair. Regardless of whether they're taught to fine tune their skills or whether they're just born with it, there's a strong presence and artistic vibe wherever you are in Puerto Rico.
As with most of Puerto Rico's culture, the country's cuisine reflects strong Spanish, Mexican, African and American influences. Locally known as Cocina Criolla or Creole Cooking, Puerto Rican traditional cuisine can be traced back to the original inhabitants of the land who feasted on fruit, corn and freshly caught seafood. Later, when Columbus arrived on the scene in 1493, other meat, rice, wheat and oil products were thrown into the mix. These mingled flavors can be tasted in various forms in traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.
Puerto Rican literature and writings are about as old as the country itself. Early settlers would spend many hours picturesquely describing their surroundings and experiences in this newly found country. Spanish writers like Fray Tomas de la Torre and Gonzalo Fernandez are high on the list of noteworthy literates.
User Comments & Reviews
2009-11-06 13:16:08
I from puerto rico y este site esta de lo mas bien. i am a catholica and this site es very helpful. muchas gracias. pr all the way!!!!
2009-10-24 21:39:23
to jullianna, im in sixth grade to and am doing a report on puerto rico! almost finished
2009-10-22 06:31:54
To Suzie Cue, Thank you for visiting PuertoRico.com. The LDS Church has an official website which will no doubt answer any questions you may have. Alternatively, you can join the PuertoRico.com Forums and post your question there. Other forum members or visitors to our site may be able to assist you.
2009-10-21 05:04:19
Great article
2009-10-18 22:14:01
Is The LDS Religion in Puerto RIco at all. I'm very Interested in Knowing.
2009-10-15 12:22:55
To Sandra (and other visitors looking for family members/friends), please join the Forums and post your question there. Other Forum members and visitors to this website may be able to assist you. Regards, PuertoRico.com Team
2009-10-12 16:47:52
Hi, born in New York to puertorican parents. I would like to know if anyone knows any family of Jose Juan Sanchez
2009-10-06 19:55:07
hi i`m puerto rican,jamican and indian lol ha
2009-10-06 06:11:00
I was born in Cayey P.R. my grandmother was Ellena Suarez I would like to know who was her parents and where they were from.
2009-10-01 15:00:15
yo amo a Puerto Rico
2009-09-30 08:26:00
Ola amigos and amigas.....Im of Puerto Rican and Asian Descent....Im hoping to know more of my puerto rican side...., I hope to get more info. from this site...,GRaCiAs
2009-09-18 14:42:03
To Marc Aguilar, Please join the forums and post your query. Other users may be able to assist you.
2009-09-18 05:30:16
Hola, looking for photos and any info of my granmother, Maria Marchany from San German PR.
2009-09-16 14:37:01
Thank you for your interest in PuertoRico.com. We encourage you to join our social forums by clicking on the "forums" option in the menu bar above and registering to become a member. Once you have been approved you can post your questions and comments on the forums for other users to read and to respond.
2009-09-15 17:22:51
Hi, born in New York to puertorican parents. I would like to know who is the original artist (signer)for the song, "En Mi Viejo San Juan" and in what year. gracias Your site awesome
2009-09-14 03:24:04
This is really good facts about Puerto rico someday I want to go there it seems like a good place to relax with the family. ;-)
2009-09-07 15:42:01
quiero informacion sobr el español de p.r.
2009-09-05 22:44:04
What is Pedro Conga's real name and on what part of the island was he from?
2009-09-05 00:58:54
Im Puerto Rican and only 11. In my 6th grade social studies class we have to do a project about places around the world and i did Pueto Rico. Do you think that u could teach me more???? Oh and i love how this site is put together.
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