El MorroThe first sight cruise visitors often see of San Juan is the Fuerte San Felipse del Morro. This powerful fortress sits on the rocky headland at the entrance to San Juan Bay and so ships entering the harbor must pass beneath it.
El Morro was constructed in order to defend San Juan from attack by the sea. It actively did so several times, including the attack by Sir Francis Drake in 1595, the Dutch attack in 1625, and Sir Ralph Abercrombie's attack in 1797. Indeed, the fortress was given additional defense during World War II in case of an attack by Axis forces. Today, El Morro is both a National Historic Site and a World Heritage Site. It is operated by the National Parks Department. The vast green fields adjoining El Morro on the landward side are popular with locals for kite flying and picnics. (See separate article about visiting the fortresses of El Morro and San Cristobal) |
Parque de la BeneficenciaNot far from the Museum of the Americas is a small park popular with strollers and students from the School of Art. The modern statue that dominates the scene is dedicated to Puerto Rican intellectual and educator Eugenio Maria de Hostos, known as the "Citizen of the Americas"
|
Cruise destination - - Old San Juan - Attractions - page three