📍 Location & Geography
Añasco is a city located on the western coast of Puerto Rico. It is nestled between the cities of Mayagüez and Rincón, and is bordered by the Mona Passage to the west, which is a body of water that separates Puerto Rico from the Dominican Republic. The city’s terrain is characterized by a combination of flatlands and hills, with the Añasco River running through it.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Añasco are approximately 18.3 degrees north latitude and 67.1 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Añasco is part of the Mayagüez Metropolitan Statistical Area, a region of Puerto Rico that includes the city of Mayagüez and surrounding municipalities. The city itself covers a total area of approximately 78.6 square miles, with 5.3 square miles being water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of Añasco was reported to be approximately 29,261. The city’s population is predominantly of Hispanic or Latino origin, with the majority being of Puerto Rican descent. The median age in Añasco is around 37 years, and the city has a slightly higher percentage of females than males.
🏛️ History
Añasco was founded by Spanish colonists in 1733, making it one of the older cities in Puerto Rico. It was named after Don Luis de Añasco, a Spanish colonist who was originally from the Basque Country. The city played a significant role in the island’s sugar cane industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Añasco is home to a variety of natural features, including the Añasco River, which is one of the longest rivers in Puerto Rico. The city also features several beaches, such as Tres Hermanos Beach, which is known for its beautiful sunsets. The surrounding hills and mountains provide opportunities for hiking and exploration, and are home to a variety of local flora and fauna.
🏫 Education
Education in Añasco is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city is home to several public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. Añasco also has a public library, the Añasco Municipal Library, which provides resources for students and residents.
🚧 Transportation
Añasco is served by the Puerto Rico Highways 2, 109, 115, and 402, providing easy access to neighboring cities and towns. Public transportation is available through buses and taxis. The nearest major airport is the Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla, which is approximately 20 miles to the north.
📜 Trivia & Events
Añasco is known as “La Ciudad Donde los Dioses Mueren” or “The City Where Gods Die,” a name derived from a popular local legend. The city hosts several annual events, including the Añasco Carnival in February and the Festival de la China Dulce in March, which celebrates the city’s historical ties to the sugar cane industry.