The Big List of Cities

Category: A

  • Aguas Buenas, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Aguas Buenas is a charming city located in the central mountainous region of the U.S. commonwealth of Puerto Rico. The city is nestled within the lush landscape of the Cordillera Central range, which is the main mountain range of Puerto Rico. Aguas Buenas is bordered by the municipalities of Caguas to the east, San Juan to the north, and Bayamón to the west.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Aguas Buenas are approximately 18.2567° N latitude and 66.1036° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Aguas Buenas is part of the Aguas Buenas County in the state of Puerto Rico. The city covers a total area of approximately 30.86 square miles (79.93 square kilometers), making it relatively small compared to other municipalities in Puerto Rico.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of Aguas Buenas was approximately 28,659. The city has a diverse demographic makeup, with a majority of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The city is also home to a mix of different age groups, with a balanced distribution of children, adults, and seniors.

    🏛️ History

    Aguas Buenas was officially founded on May 25, 1838, by Antonio Vélez. The city’s name, which translates to “Good Waters”, was inspired by the abundance of fresh water springs in the area. Aguas Buenas played a significant role in the development of Puerto Rico’s coffee industry during the 19th century.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Aguas Buenas is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The city is home to several rivers, including the Bayamón, Bairoa, and Cañas rivers. The lush landscape of the Cordillera Central range provides a habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. The city is also known for its picturesque views and scenic hiking trails.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Aguas Buenas is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city is home to several public and private schools that cater to students from kindergarten through high school. These include the Aguas Buenas High School and the Antonio R. Barceló Elementary School.

    🚧 Transportation

    The main mode of transportation in Aguas Buenas is by road. The city is served by several major highways, including Puerto Rico Highway 156, which connects Aguas Buenas to the neighboring cities of Caguas and Bayamón. Public transportation is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Aguas Buenas is famous for its annual Mask Festival, a vibrant event that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. The festival features traditional music, dance, and colorful handmade masks. Another notable event is the Aguas Buenas Patron Saint Festival, which is held in honor of Saint John the Baptist. The city is also known for its local cuisine, particularly its delicious coffee and traditional Puerto Rican dishes.

  • Arecibo, Puerto Rico

    📍 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.”

  • Angeles, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Angeles is a small city located in the county of Utuado, in the commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a territory of the United States. It is situated in the central mountainous region of the island, surrounded by lush greenery and a landscape characterized by rolling hills and valleys. The city is part of the Utuado municipality, which is known for its coffee plantations and rich biodiversity.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Angeles are approximately 18.267 degrees North latitude and 66.702 degrees West longitude. This places the city in the tropical climate zone, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity levels throughout the year.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Angeles is part of the Utuado region, one of the 78 municipalities of Puerto Rico. The city covers a relatively small area, typical of the many compact communities found throughout the island. Despite its small size, Angeles is home to a vibrant community and a rich cultural heritage.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the most recent census data, the population of Angeles is relatively small, reflecting its status as a rural community within the larger Utuado municipality. The population is predominantly of Hispanic descent, as is typical for Puerto Rico. The city is known for its close-knit community and friendly residents.

    🏛️ History

    Angeles, like much of Puerto Rico, has a history that dates back to the indigenous Taíno people who inhabited the island before the arrival of Spanish colonizers. The city’s development has been shaped by its agricultural roots, particularly its role in coffee production during the 19th and 20th centuries. Despite the challenges of natural disasters and economic changes, Angeles has maintained its unique character and cultural traditions.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Angeles is surrounded by a rich natural environment, including forests, rivers, and mountains. The city is near the Rio Grande de Arecibo, one of Puerto Rico’s major rivers. The region’s biodiversity includes a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are unique to the island. The city’s location in the central mountains also provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Angeles is governed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public schools serving students from kindergarten through high school. There are also opportunities for higher education in nearby cities, including the University of Puerto Rico at Utuado.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in Angeles primarily consists of roads that connect the city to other parts of Utuado and the island at large. Public transportation options are limited, so many residents rely on private vehicles for travel. The city is also served by regional taxi services and is within driving distance of several major airports.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Angeles is known for its local festivals and community events, which often celebrate the city’s cultural heritage and agricultural history. One notable event is the annual Coffee Festival, which pays tribute to the region’s long-standing coffee production industry. The city is also near the Caguana Ceremonial Ball Courts Site, a significant archaeological site associated with the Taíno people.

  • Anasco, Puerto Rico

    📍 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.

  • Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Aguadilla is a charming coastal city located on the northwestern tip of the island of Puerto Rico. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and north, and by the towns of Isabela to the east and Moca and Aguada to the south. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive cliffs, and a number of parks and recreational areas.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.4275° N latitude and 67.1541° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Aguadilla is part of the Aguadilla-Isabela-San Sebastian Metropolitan Statistical Area in Puerto Rico. The city spans a total area of about 35.5 square miles (92 km2), of which approximately 31.5 square miles (81.6 km2) is land and 4 square miles (10.4 km2) is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Aguadilla had a population of approximately 60,949 people. The population is primarily of Hispanic origin, with a significant proportion identifying as White. The city is also home to a diverse mix of age groups, with a median age of around 37 years.

    🏛️ History

    Aguadilla was originally a part of Aguada until 1775 when it was established as a separate town. The city has a rich history, with its roots dating back to the pre-Columbian era. It was once a crucial port during the Spanish colonial period. In the 19th century, Aguadilla was declared a village by the Spanish Crown, and later, it became a city under the U.S. administration after the Spanish-American War in 1898.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Aguadilla is known for its beautiful natural landscape. It boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, such as Crash Boat Beach and Survival Beach. The city is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Rafael Hernandez Park and the Colon Park. Aguadilla’s tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round, makes it a perfect destination for outdoor activities.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Aguadilla 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. Aguadilla also hosts the University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla, a higher education institution offering a variety of undergraduate programs.

    🚧 Transportation

    Aguadilla is served by the Rafael Hernández Airport, the second largest international airport in Puerto Rico. The city is also accessible by road, with major highways like PR-2 connecting it to other parts of the island. Public transportation in Aguadilla includes public buses and taxis.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Aguadilla is known as “El Nuevo Jardín del Atlántico” (The New Garden of the Atlantic). The city hosts several annual events, including the Festival de la Chiringa, a kite festival held in April. Aguadilla is also famous for its Christmas festivities, which include a renowned ice skating rink, the only one of its kind in the Caribbean.