📍 Location & Geography
Corozal is a municipality in the central-eastern region of Puerto Rico. It is situated in the northern part of the Cordillera Central, a mountainous region that runs across the island. The town is bordered by Naranjito to the west, Morovis and Orocovis to the south, Toa Alta to the north, and Vega Alta to the east. The topography of Corozal is characterized by steep hills and valleys.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Corozal, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.3411° N latitude and 66.3126° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Corozal is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area. The municipality of Corozal covers a total area of 43.17 square miles (111.8 km²), of which 42.99 square miles (111.3 km²) is land and 0.19 square miles (0.49 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of Corozal was 37,142. The population density was 864.1 inhabitants per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was predominantly Hispanic. The town is known for its strong sense of community and rich cultural heritage.
🏛️ History
Corozal was founded on June 17, 1795, by Luis Munoz Marin. Its name is derived from the “palma de corozo” (corozo palm) which abounds in the central zone of the Island. Corozal has a strong agricultural history, with plantations growing crops such as coffee, tobacco, and sugar cane.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Corozal is known for its lush greenery and mountainous landscapes. It is home to several rivers including the Cibuco, Mavilla, and Orocovis rivers. The town’s natural beauty is complemented by its well-preserved environment, making it a haven for nature lovers.
🏫 Education
Corozal has several public and private schools offering education from kindergarten to high school. The public education is administered by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. There are also opportunities for higher education in nearby areas, including the University of Puerto Rico.
🚧 Transportation
Corozal is accessible via several main roads including Puerto Rico Highway 159, Highway 160, and Highway 807. Public transportation in Corozal is limited, but the town is served by private taxis and ride-sharing services. The nearest airport is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, located in San Juan.
📜 Trivia & Events
Corozal is known for its annual Festival del Corozo, a festival celebrating the town’s namesake palm. The event features local food, music, and arts and crafts. Corozal is also famous for its “hamacas” (hammocks), which are handcrafted by local artisans and are considered some of the best in Puerto Rico.