📍 Location & Geography
Cataño is a city located in the northern coastal region of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Bayamon to the south and west, and the San Juan Bay to the east. The city is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area and is known for its small size but strategic location.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Cataño, Puerto Rico, are approximately 18.4413° N latitude and 66.1166° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Cataño is a part of the CATANO county in Puerto Rico. Despite being one of the smallest municipalities in Puerto Rico, covering an area of just 12.77 square kilometers, it is densely populated due to its close proximity to the capital, San Juan.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Cataño was approximately 28,140. The city is known for its diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino. The city has a balanced age distribution, with a slightly higher percentage of females than males.
🏛️ History
Cataño was founded in 1927, making it one of the youngest municipalities in Puerto Rico. Its location along the northern coast made it a strategic point for shipping and transportation, leading to rapid development and growth. The city is named after Hernando de Cataño, a Spanish settler who owned the land in the 16th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Despite its small size, Cataño is home to several parks and green spaces. The city is known for its beautiful views of the San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Cataño is also home to the Palo Seco Power Plant, a major electricity-generating facility.
🏫 Education
Education in Cataño is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools offering education from kindergarten through high school. There are also vocational and technical schools in the area. For higher education, residents often travel to nearby cities such as San Juan.
🚧 Transportation
Cataño is well-connected by road and sea. The city is served by several major highways, including PR-22 and PR-165. The Cataño Ferry, also known as La Lancha de Cataño, provides a quick and convenient way to travel across the San Juan Bay to Old San Juan. The city is also close to the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, providing connections to the rest of Puerto Rico and the world.
📜 Trivia & Events
Cataño is known for the Casa Bacardi, the world’s largest rum distillery, which offers tours and tastings. The city also hosts several annual events, including the Festival del Pescao, a festival celebrating the city’s fishing heritage. In addition, Cataño’s waterfront promenade, known as the Paseo Tablado, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.