The Big List of Cities

Author: dangreen.com

  • Orocovis, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Orocovis is a municipality located in the central mountainous region of the island of Puerto Rico. It is nestled in the heart of the island, surrounded by the municipalities of Morovis, Corozal, Villalba, Juana Díaz, Coamo, Barranquitas, and Ciales. The town is known for its rugged terrain, lush vegetation, and picturesque views. Orocovis is divided into 14 barrios or wards, with Orocovis barrio-pueblo being the administrative center of the municipality.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Orocovis are approximately 18.2208° N latitude and 66.5901° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Orocovis is part of the central mountain range of Puerto Rico, known as La Cordillera Central. It occupies an area of approximately 63 square miles (163 square kilometers), making it one of the larger municipalities on the island.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Orocovis has a population of approximately 20,220 residents. The population is predominantly of Hispanic or Latino origin, with Spanish being the primary language spoken in the area. The municipality has a balanced gender distribution, with a slight majority being female.

    🏛️ History

    Orocovis was founded in 1825, and its name is believed to be derived from a Taíno chief named Orocobix. The town was originally part of the larger municipality of Barranquitas until it was separated and established as its own municipality. Orocovis played a significant role in Puerto Rico’s agricultural history, with its fertile lands being ideal for coffee, tobacco, and fruit cultivation.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Orocovis is known for its natural beauty, with its mountainous landscape offering breathtaking views. The town is home to several natural attractions, including the Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park, which is one of the largest aerial parks in the world. The area is rich in flora and fauna, with many endemic species found in the region. The climate is tropical, with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Orocovis is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The municipality is home to several public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. Post-secondary education opportunities are available in nearby towns and cities.

    🚧 Transportation

    Due to its central location, Orocovis is accessible via several main roads, including Puerto Rico Highways 155, 156, and 157. Public transportation is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting. The nearest airports are in the cities of Ponce and San Juan.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Orocovis is known as “El Corazón de Puerto Rico” (The Heart of Puerto Rico) due to its central geographical location on the island. The town hosts several cultural and festive events throughout the year, including the Festival del Jíbaro and the Festival de la Montaña. Orocovis is also home to the longest zip line in the Americas, known as “The Monster,” which is located in the Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park.

  • Naranjito, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Naranjito is a small, picturesque town nestled in the central mountainous region of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is bordered by the municipalities of Corozal to the east, Toa Alta to the north, Comerío to the south, and Bayamón to the west. The town is characterized by its hilly terrain and abundant vegetation, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Naranjito, Puerto Rico, are approximately 18.3030° N latitude and 66.2446° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Naranjito is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area within Puerto Rico. The municipality covers a total area of approximately 28.4 square miles (73.6 square kilometers), which includes both land and water areas.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Naranjito had a population of 10,131 residents. The population density is about 357 people per square mile. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, with Spanish being the primary language spoken in the area.

    🏛️ History

    Naranjito was founded on December 3, 1824, by Don Braulio Morales. The name “Naranjito” translates to “little orange,” and it is believed to have been named after a small orange tree that stood in the town’s square during its early days. The town played a significant role in the Puerto Rican economy, with its fertile lands producing coffee, tobacco, and fruits.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Naranjito is known for its lush greenery and natural beauty. The town’s terrain is primarily hilly and mountainous, providing a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Río de la Plata, Puerto Rico’s longest river, flows through the southern part of the municipality, adding to its scenic beauty.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Naranjito is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town has several public and private schools that offer education from kindergarten through high school. Additionally, the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico has a satellite campus in Naranjito, offering higher education opportunities to the local population.

    🚧 Transportation

    Naranjito is accessible by Puerto Rico Highway 152, which connects it to the neighboring towns. Public transportation in the area is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting. The closest major airport to Naranjito is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, located in San Juan.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Naranjito is famous for its annual “Festival del Guineo” (Banana Festival), where locals and visitors celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage with music, food, and cultural activities. The town is also known for its professional volleyball team, Plataneros de Naranjito, which has won numerous national championships.

  • Naguabo, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Naguabo is a picturesque town located on the east coast of Puerto Rico. The town is situated along the coast of the Caribbean Sea, bordered by the municipalities of Rio Grande to the north, Humacao to the south, and Ceiba to the east. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, lush green mountains, and the Naguabo River that flows through the town.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Naguabo, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.21 degrees north latitude and 65.73 degrees west longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Naguabo is part of the Eastern Coastal Plains region of Puerto Rico. It covers a total area of approximately 52.29 square miles (135.4 square kilometers), making it one of the larger municipalities in the region. The town is divided into 10 barrios or wards, including the downtown area known as Naguabo Pueblo.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Naguabo had a population of approximately 25,761 people. The population is predominantly Hispanic, reflecting the overall demographics of Puerto Rico. The town has a balanced age distribution with a median age of about 38 years.

    🏛️ History

    Naguabo was founded on July 15, 1821, by Don Luis de Quixano y Font, who was the mayor of Humacao at the time. The town’s name is derived from a local Indian Chief, Naguabo, who was known for his bravery and leadership. Over the years, Naguabo has maintained its cultural heritage and historical charm, with many of its buildings reflecting Spanish colonial architecture.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Naguabo is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is home to the El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System. The Naguabo River, which flows through the town, adds to its scenic beauty. The town’s coastal location also provides access to beautiful beaches and opportunities for water sports.

    🏫 Education

    Naguabo has several public and private schools providing education from kindergarten through high school. The town is part of the Puerto Rico Department of Education district. In addition to primary and secondary schools, Naguabo is also home to a technical and vocational school, offering a variety of programs for students.

    🚧 Transportation

    Naguabo is accessible by Puerto Rico Highway 3, which runs along the eastern coast of the island. The town is also served by several secondary roads that connect it to neighboring municipalities. Public transportation in Naguabo is provided by the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Naguabo is known for its annual Seafood Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the island and beyond. The festival celebrates the town’s rich fishing tradition with a variety of seafood dishes, live music, and cultural performances. Naguabo is also home to the Punta Lima Wind Farm, one of the largest wind farms in Puerto Rico.

  • Ponce, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Ponce is located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, on the Caribbean Sea. It is the second largest city in Puerto Rico, after San Juan. The city is spread over 12 wards and Ponce Pueblo, the downtown area and the administrative center of the city. The city is nestled between the central mountain range and the Caribbean Sea, and it is also near the highest peak in Puerto Rico, Cerro de Punta.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Ponce are approximately 18.0111° N latitude, and 66.6141° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Ponce is part of the Ponce Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is located in the Southern Coastal Plain region of Puerto Rico. The total area of the city is approximately 116.0 square miles (300.6 km2), making it one of the largest municipalities in Puerto Rico.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of Ponce was approximately 166,327. The population is primarily of Hispanic origin, with a significant number of residents identifying as white. The city is also home to a diverse mix of races and ethnicities, reflecting its rich history and cultural heritage.

    🏛️ History

    Ponce was founded in 1692 by Juan Ponce de León’s great-grandson, Loíza Ponce de León. The city was named after the Spanish explorer, who was the first governor of Puerto Rico. Ponce was Spain’s capital of the southern region until it fell to the U.S. in 1898 during the Spanish-American War. The city is known for its neoclassical buildings and structures, many of which were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Ponce is home to various natural attractions. The city’s coastal location offers beautiful beaches, while its proximity to the central mountain range provides opportunities for hiking and exploring tropical forests. The city is also home to the unique Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Caribbean.

    🏫 Education

    Ponce is home to several public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. The Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico and the Ponce Health Sciences University are among the higher education institutions in the city. The city’s public education is served by the Puerto Rico Department of Education.

    🚧 Transportation

    Ponce is served by the Mercedita Airport, which offers flights to and from various destinations. The city also has a public transportation system, which includes buses and taxis. The Autopista Luis A. Ferré (PR-52), a major highway in Puerto Rico, runs through the city, providing easy access to other parts of the island.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Ponce is often referred to as “La Perla del Sur” (The Pearl of the South) or “La Ciudad Señorial” (The Noble City). The city is known for its vibrant cultural and artistic scene, with the annual Ponce Carnival being one of its most famous events. The city is also home to the Ponce Museum of Art, the largest art museum in the Caribbean.

  • Mercedita, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Mercedita is a small town located in the southern part of Puerto Rico, within the Ponce county. It is situated on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, and is known for its flat terrain, tropical climate, and scenic coastal views. The town is surrounded by various other municipalities such as Juana Diaz to the east, and Penuelas to the west.

    🌎 Coordinates

    Mercedita is located at approximately 18.0072° N latitude and 66.5630° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Mercedita is part of the Ponce county, which is located in the southern region of Puerto Rico. The town itself covers a relatively small area, making it a close-knit community.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the last census, the population of Mercedita is relatively small compared to other towns in Puerto Rico. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting the overall demographic makeup of the island. The town is a blend of different age groups, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.

    🏛️ History

    Mercedita was named after the daughter of the founder of the town, Don Juan Serrallés. The town has a rich history in sugar cane production, with the Central Mercedita sugar mill being one of the most significant contributors to the economy in the past. The town is also known for being the birthplace of the renowned Don Q rum, a product of the Destilería Serrallés.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Mercedita is known for its beautiful coastal views and tropical climate. The area is home to a variety of local flora and fauna, including a number of bird species. The town is also in close proximity to the Toro Negro State Forest, a popular spot for hiking and nature exploration.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Mercedita is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town is home to several public and private schools, offering education from elementary to high school levels. For higher education, residents often travel to nearby Ponce, which hosts several universities and colleges.

    🚧 Transportation

    Mercedita is served by the Mercedita Airport, which is the major airport in the southern region of Puerto Rico. The town also has a good network of roads, providing easy access to neighboring towns and cities. Public transportation is available, with buses and taxis being the most common modes of transport.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Mercedita is known for its annual events and festivals, which often celebrate the town’s history and culture. One of the most notable events is the Festival del Güiro, a music festival that celebrates the güiro, a musical instrument native to Puerto Rico. The town is also home to the Destilería Serrallés, where the famous Don Q rum is produced, and tours of the distillery are a popular attraction for visitors.