Discover Old San Juan | Home to the El Morro
It is easy to imagine that you have been transported back in time when you walk the streets of Old San Juan. As your shoes clatter away on bluish cobble-stone streets it is not hard to imagine elegantly clad men and woman gracing the balconies or walking beside you.
Old San Juan is located on the North Westerly side of the San Juan Island. It was originally built to act as a military stronghold. Though the sturdy old military fortifications still stand, it has now developed into a charming residential area with a strong Spanish influence.
The city today has numerous plazas that act as an enjoyable place of meeting for locals and tourists alike. It also has numerous churches and statues that visitors can view at their discretion. The most outstanding feature of Old Sand Juan, however, has to be the massive military fortifications that still stand. Impressive walls still surround parts of the city and there are numerous old forts and barracks to visit.
One of the most impressive forts is El Morro. Located on the furthest precipice of Old San Juan, it overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay. It has six levels, a network of underground tunnels and it stands an imposing 140ft above the sea. Its 18ft thick walls defended it successfully against numerous attacks and invasions. No longer in use as a fort, it is now a national historic site which is open to the public daily.
You can take a leisurely foot tour through Old San Juan on any day of the week. It offers an attractive alternative to socializing and sun bathing and is relatively inexpensive. Make sure you plan enough time though, because there is a lot worth seeing.
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