📍 Location & Geography
Arecibo is a vibrant city located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, approximately 50 miles west of San Juan. It is the largest municipality in terms of area on the island, covering approximately 127 square miles. The city is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, and is surrounded by the municipalities of Barceloneta, Utuado, and Hatillo. The city’s terrain is diverse, featuring coastal plains, river valleys, and mountainous regions.
🌎 Coordinates
The city of Arecibo is located at approximately 18.4725° N latitude and 66.7157° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Arecibo is part of the Arecibo Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is the largest city by area in Puerto Rico, covering about 127 square miles. The city is divided into 18 wards, with Arecibo Pueblo being the downtown area and the administrative center of the city.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Arecibo had a population of approximately 96,440, making it the tenth most populous city in Puerto Rico. The population is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
🏛️ History
Arecibo was founded in 1616 by Spanish colonists and was officially recognized as a town in 1778. Its name is derived from the Taíno chief Arecibo, who was known for his resistance against Spanish colonization. During the 19th century, Arecibo became an important port for the sugar industry. The city is also known for its historic lighthouse and cultural museum, both of which are popular tourist attractions.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Arecibo is home to a variety of natural attractions. The Cueva Ventana, or “Window Cave,” offers stunning views of the Río Grande de Arecibo valley. The Arecibo Observatory, once the world’s largest single-dish radio telescope, is located in the mountains of Arecibo. The city also boasts beautiful beaches like the Playa Los Morrillos, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
🏫 Education
Education in Arecibo is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities, including the University of Puerto Rico at Arecibo. The Interamerican University of Puerto Rico also has a campus in the city.
🚧 Transportation
Arecibo is served by the Antonio (Nery) Juarbe Pol Airport, which offers domestic flights. The city is also accessible via the PR-22, PR-10, and PR-2 highways. Public transportation in Arecibo includes public cars, taxis, and a trolley service in the downtown area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Arecibo is known for its annual carnivals and festivals, including the Arecibo Carnival and the San Juan Bautista Parade. The city also hosted the 2010 Central American and Caribbean Games. Arecibo is famous for the Arecibo Observatory, which was featured in the James Bond film “GoldenEye” and the movie “Contact.”