📍 Location & Geography
Las Marías is a town and municipality located on the western side of the island of Puerto Rico. It is nestled within the central mountain range, with lush greenery and a tropical climate. The town is bordered by Maricao and San Sebastián to the north, Lares to the east, Mayagüez to the west, and Anasco and Maricao to the south.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Las Marías, Puerto Rico, are approximately 18.2527° N latitude and 66.9916° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Las Marías is part of the Mayagüez Metropolitan Statistical Area, despite its mountainous location. The municipality covers an area of about 120 square kilometers, making it relatively small in comparison to other municipalities in Puerto Rico.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2020, the population of Las Marías is approximately 7,927. The town has seen a decrease in population over the years, largely due to urbanization and migration to larger cities. The majority of the population is Hispanic, as is typical in Puerto Rico, and Spanish is the primary language spoken.
🏛️ History
Las Marías was founded in 1871 by Benito Recio. The town was named after Maria Alonzo y Arizmendi, the wife of the governor of Puerto Rico at the time, José María Marxuach. The town has a rich history in agriculture, especially in the cultivation of coffee, fruits, and grains.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Las Marías is known for its beautiful tropical landscapes and fertile lands. The town is surrounded by hills and mountains, with the Rio Grande de Anasco running through it. The region is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. The climate is tropical, with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year.
🏫 Education
Education in Las Marías 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. However, there are no universities within the town, so students seeking higher education typically travel to nearby cities.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Las Marías is mainly by road. The town is served by several main roads, including PR-108, PR-119, and PR-407. There is no public transportation system within the town, so residents typically rely on private vehicles. The nearest airport is the Eugenio Maria de Hostos Airport in Mayagüez.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Las Marías hosts the Orange Festival, a popular event that celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage. The festival includes music, dances, and a variety of orange-based foods and drinks. Las Marías is also known for its traditional Puerto Rican music, particularly the décima, a type of ten-line folk song.