📍 Location & Geography
Guayama is a city located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. The city is nestled between the Caribbean Sea to the south and the Central Mountain Range to the north. It is part of the Guayama Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city covers an area of approximately 70 square miles, with a small portion of this area being water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Guayama are approximately 17.98 degrees north latitude and 66.11 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Guayama is located in the southeastern region of Puerto Rico. It is divided into several districts, including the downtown area, known as Guayama Pueblo, and 9 barrios. The city is part of the Guayama county and is encompassed by the ZIP codes 00784 and 00785.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Guayama had a population of approximately 45,362 people. The city is predominantly Hispanic, with a significant portion of the population being of Puerto Rican descent. The median age in Guayama is around 38 years.
🏛️ History
Guayama was founded by Spanish colonists in 1736, making it one of the older cities in Puerto Rico. Its name is derived from the Taíno Indian term for “large place”. The city played a significant role in the island’s sugar industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Several historic buildings and sites in Guayama, including the Church of San Antonio de Padua and the Guayama Historic District, are listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Guayama is known for its scenic beauty, with the Caribbean Sea to the south and mountains to the north. The city is home to several natural attractions, including the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, the largest estuarine habitat in Puerto Rico, and the Carite Forest Reserve. The city also has several parks and recreational areas.
🏫 Education
Education in Guayama is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools. Guayama is also home to the University of Puerto Rico at Guayama, a public university offering undergraduate programs in various fields.
🚧 Transportation
Guayama is served by several major highways, including Puerto Rico Highway 54, which connects the city to the rest of the island. The city also has a public transportation system, which includes buses and taxis. The nearest major airport to Guayama is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, which is approximately 65 miles to the north.
📜 Trivia & Events
Guayama is known for its annual festivals and cultural events. One of the most notable is the Patron Saint Festival, which is held in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua, the city’s patron saint. The city is also known for its traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, particularly its lechoneras, or roast pork restaurants.