📍 Location & Geography
Caguas is a city in Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is located in the central mountain range of Puerto Rico, south of San Juan and Trujillo Alto, west of Gurabo and San Lorenzo, and east of Aguas Buenas, Cidra, and Cayey. The city is spread over 10 wards and Caguas Pueblo, the downtown area and the administrative center of the city.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Caguas, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.2388° N latitude, and 66.0381° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Caguas is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city covers an area of approximately 58.6 square miles (151.8 square kilometers).
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Caguas was estimated to be around 127,244, making it the 5th most populous city in Puerto Rico. The city has a diverse demographic profile with a mix of races and ethnicities. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
🏛️ History
Caguas was founded on January 1, 1775, as San Sebastián del Piñal de Caguax, in honor of a local Taíno chief. The city has a rich history and has played a significant role in the development of Puerto Rico’s tobacco, sugar cane, and small fruits industries. Over the years, Caguas has evolved from a small mountain town to a bustling city and a major center of retail and manufacturing industries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Caguas is surrounded by lush mountains and is known for its beautiful natural landscapes. The city is home to several parks and green spaces, including the popular Botanical and Cultural Garden, which showcases the island’s flora and fauna. The Caguas Real Golf & Country Club also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
🏫 Education
Caguas is served by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has numerous public and private schools, providing education from kindergarten through high school. For higher education, the city hosts several institutions, including the University of Turabo and the Metropolitan University.
🚧 Transportation
Caguas is well-connected by a network of highways, including the PR-1, PR-52, and PR-30. The city is also served by a public transportation system, which includes buses and taxis. The nearest airport is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, located in San Juan.
📜 Trivia & Events
Caguas is known as “La Ciudad Criolla” (The Creole City) and “La Ciudad Del Turabo” (City of Turabo). The city hosts a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Festival de Bomba y Plena, which celebrates the island’s traditional music and dance. The city is also home to the Caguas Criollos, a professional baseball team in the Puerto Rican Professional Baseball League.