The Big List of Cities

The Big List

  • Lajas, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Lajas is a city located in the southwestern part of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is nestled between the Caribbean Sea to the south and the mountains to the north. The city is known for its flat, fertile plains, which are ideal for agriculture. Lajas is also home to the Phosphorescent Bay, a popular tourist attraction known for its bioluminescent organisms.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Lajas, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.05° N latitude and 67.05° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Lajas is part of the Lajas Municipality in Puerto Rico. The city covers a total area of approximately 175.29 square kilometers (67.68 square miles), which includes both land and water areas.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the population of Lajas is approximately 23,500 residents. The city is known for its diverse population, with a mix of people of different ages and backgrounds. The majority of the population is of Hispanic or Latino origin, with Spanish being the most commonly spoken language.

    🏛️ History

    Lajas was founded in the early 19th century, specifically in 1883. The city’s name, which translates to “flat stones” in English, is believed to have been derived from the flat, slate-like stones found in the region’s rivers. Lajas has a rich agricultural history, with its fertile plains being used for farming since its inception. Over the years, the city has developed into a vibrant community known for its unique attractions and rich culture.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Lajas is known for its natural beauty, from its fertile plains to its stunning coastline. One of the city’s most famous natural attractions is the Phosphorescent Bay, where bioluminescent organisms light up the water at night. The city is also home to several parks and nature reserves, offering residents and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Lajas’ environment is also characterized by its agricultural lands, which produce a variety of crops.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Lajas is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city is home to several public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. Higher education opportunities are also available in nearby cities.

    🚧 Transportation

    Lajas is served by a network of roads and highways, making it easily accessible by car. The city is also served by public transportation, including buses. The nearest major airport is the Eugenio María de Hostos Airport in Mayagüez, which is approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) to the north of Lajas.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Lajas is known for its annual events, including the Festival del Pescao, a festival celebrating the city’s fishing industry. The city is also famous for its UFO sightings, leading to the establishment of the Route of the Extraterrestrial, a tourist route featuring locations of reported sightings.

  • Jayuya, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Jayuya is a city located in the mountainous central region of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. The city is nestled within the Cordillera Central range, the largest mountain range in Puerto Rico. Jayuya is named after the indigenous Taíno tribal leader, Hayuya. The city is known for its lush green landscapes, coffee plantations, and indigenous heritage.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Jayuya are approximately 18.2208° N latitude and 66.5911° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Jayuya is part of the Jayuya County, in the central region of Puerto Rico. The city covers an area of approximately 101.81 square kilometers (39.31 square miles). It is bordered by the municipalities of Utuado to the north, Ponce to the south, Ciales to the west, and Orocovis and Coamo to the east.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of Jayuya was approximately 16,642. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic. The city is known for its rich indigenous heritage, with a significant number of residents claiming Taíno ancestry.

    🏛️ History

    Jayuya was founded on August 27, 1911. The city is named after the Taíno tribal leader, Hayuya, who was known for his courage and valor. Jayuya is recognized for its significant indigenous history and is home to the Cemi Museum and the Taíno ceremonial park, which preserve and celebrate the city’s indigenous roots.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Jayuya is known for its lush, verdant landscapes and its location within the Cordillera Central mountain range. The city is home to the Toro Negro State Forest, a protected forest reserve that features hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. The climate in Jayuya is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round and a high level of rainfall.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Jayuya 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. Post-secondary education opportunities are available in nearby cities.

    🚧 Transportation

    Due to its mountainous location, transportation in Jayuya primarily involves road travel. The city is served by several major highways, including Puerto Rico Highway 144, Puerto Rico Highway 140, and Puerto Rico Highway 143. Public transportation is limited, and many residents rely on private vehicles for commuting.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Jayuya is known for its annual Indigenous Festival, a celebration of the city’s Taíno heritage, featuring traditional music, dance, and crafts. The city is also famous for its coffee production and hosts a Coffee Festival every year. The Cemi Museum in Jayuya is one of the few places in Puerto Rico dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of Taíno artifacts and history.

  • Isabela, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Isabela is a city located on the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, the municipalities of Quebradillas and Camuy to the east, San Sebastián to the south, and Aguadilla to the west. The city is known for its diverse and beautiful geography, which includes beaches, rivers, and mountains.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The coordinates for Isabela are approximately 18.4950° N latitude and 67.0240° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Isabela is part of the Porta del Sol region, a popular tourist destination on the western side of Puerto Rico. It covers an area of approximately 89.6 square miles (232 square kilometers), making it one of the larger municipalities on the island.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 Census, Isabela has a population of approximately 43,000 residents. The city is a diverse mix of people, with a majority of the population being of Puerto Rican descent. The city is predominantly Spanish-speaking, although English is also widely understood and spoken due to Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory.

    🏛️ History

    Isabela was founded on May 21, 1819, by Antonio de los Reyes Correa, a captain in the Spanish army. The city was named in honor of Queen Isabella I of Castile, Spain. Over the years, Isabela has been known for its agricultural industry, particularly sugar cane, coffee, and tobacco. Today, it is a thriving city with a growing tourism industry, thanks to its beautiful beaches and historical sites.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Isabela is blessed with a variety of natural attractions. It is home to numerous beautiful beaches, including Jobos Beach and Montones Beach, which are popular with surfers and beachgoers alike. The city is also home to the Guajataca Forest Reserve, a subtropical moist forest that houses a variety of flora and fauna. In addition, the Rio Guajataca (Guajataca River) runs through the city, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities.

    🏫 Education

    Isabela has a robust education system with several public and private schools serving its residents. The city is part of the Puerto Rico Department of Education and has several elementary, middle, and high schools. For higher education, the city is home to the Universidad de Puerto Rico en Isabela, a branch of the University of Puerto Rico.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in Isabela is primarily by car, with PR-2 being the main highway that runs through the city. The Rafael Hernandez Airport in neighboring Aguadilla provides the nearest commercial air service. For local transportation, public buses and taxis are available.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Isabela is known as the “Garden of the Northwest” due to its beautiful natural scenery. The city hosts several annual events, including the Isabela Cockfighting Festival and the Patron Saint Festival in honor of St. Anthony of Padua. Isabela is also home to the Punta Sardina Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Puerto Rico.

  • Hormigueros, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Hormigueros is a small town located on the western coast of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is nestled in the valley of the Guanajibo River and surrounded by hills. The town is part of the San Germán–Cabo Rojo metropolitan area. Hormigueros is known for its unique topography, featuring both flatlands and hills, and is bordered by the municipalities of Mayagüez, San Germán, and Cabo Rojo.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Hormigueros are approximately 18.1429° N latitude and 67.1275° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Hormigueros is part of the Hormigueros municipality in the U.S. Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. The municipality is divided into six barrios (districts): Hormigueros barrio-pueblo, Guanajibo, Jagüitas, Lavadero, and Sabana Grande. The total area of Hormigueros is 11.4 square miles (29.5 square kilometers), of which 11.3 square miles (29.2 square kilometers) is land and 0.1 square miles (0.3 square kilometers) is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As per the United States Census Bureau, the population of Hormigueros was approximately 17,250 as of the 2010 Census. The population is predominantly Hispanic, with Spanish being the primary language spoken. The town is known for its strong sense of community and local culture.

    🏛️ History

    Hormigueros was founded in 1874, but its history dates back to the early 16th century. The town’s name, which translates to “ant hill,” is said to have originated from the large number of ants found in the area. Hormigueros is famous for its Basilica Menor de la Virgen de Monserrate, a Roman Catholic church built in the late 16th century, which attracts many visitors and pilgrims each year.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Hormigueros is characterized by its lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna. The town is surrounded by hills and the Guanajibo River, providing a variety of natural landscapes. The local government has made efforts to preserve the natural beauty of the area and promote sustainable practices.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Hormigueros is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town has several public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. There are also vocational and technical schools available for post-secondary education. The University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus, is located nearby, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

    🚧 Transportation

    Hormigueros is served by the Puerto Rico Highway 2, a major highway that connects the town to other parts of the island. The town is also accessible via Puerto Rico Highways 114, 346, and 344. Public transportation services are provided by the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Hormigueros hosts the annual Festival de la Virgen de Monserrate, a religious event that attracts visitors from across Puerto Rico and beyond. The festival includes a procession, live music, food, and cultural activities. The town is also known for its traditional crafts, particularly its handmade ceramics.

  • Hatillo, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Hatillo is located along the northern coast of Puerto Rico, facing the Atlantic Ocean. It is bordered by the municipalities of Camuy to the west, Lares and Utuado to the south, and Arecibo to the east. The town’s terrain is mostly flat, with some hills and mountains in the south part of the municipality. Hatillo is known for its fertile lands and beautiful beaches.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Hatillo, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.4863° N latitude and 66.8254° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Hatillo is part of the Northern Coastal Valley region of Puerto Rico. The municipality covers an area of approximately 111.5 square miles (288.7 square kilometers), making it one of the larger municipalities on the island.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Hatillo has a population of approximately 39,218 people. The population is predominantly Hispanic, reflecting the overall demographic makeup of Puerto Rico. The city is known for its strong sense of community and vibrant local culture.

    🏛️ History

    Hatillo was founded in 1823 by Don Agustín Ruiz Miranda, a wealthy landowner who owned a hatillo (herd) of cows, which gave the town its name. The town was initially an agricultural community, with dairy farming playing a significant role in its economy. Over time, Hatillo has evolved into a mix of agricultural and industrial activities, with manufacturing and services also contributing to its economy.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Hatillo boasts a variety of natural attractions, including beautiful beaches like Sardinera Beach and Pajuil Beach. The town also has several rivers, including the Camuy River and the Grande de Arecibo River. The municipality’s fertile lands are ideal for agriculture, particularly dairy farming and the cultivation of crops like coffee and fruits.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Hatillo is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town has several public and private schools that cater to students from kindergarten to high school. For higher education, residents often attend universities in nearby cities like Arecibo and Mayagüez.

    🚧 Transportation

    Hatillo is served by the Puerto Rico Highway 2, which runs along the northern coast of the island, connecting the town with other major cities like San Juan and Ponce. The town also has a network of local roads that connect its various neighborhoods and districts. Public transportation in Hatillo is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Hatillo is famous for its annual “Festival de las Máscaras” (Festival of Masks), which takes place on December 28th. This vibrant and colorful event is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in Puerto Rico, attracting visitors from across the island and beyond. The festival commemorates the biblical story of King Herod and the Massacre of the Innocents, with participants wearing elaborate masks and costumes.