📍 Location & Geography
Sabana Grande is a city located in the southern part of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is nestled between the municipalities of San Germán, Guánica, Yauco, Maricao, and Guayanilla. The city is surrounded by hills and mountains, and is known for its fertile plains which are ideal for agriculture.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Sabana Grande are approximately 18.0797° N latitude and 66.9608° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Sabana Grande is part of the Sabana Grande municipality in Puerto Rico. It covers a total area of approximately 36.8 square miles (95.3 square kilometers). The city is divided into several neighborhoods, including Machuchal, Rayo, Rincon, Santana, Sonador, Susua Baja, and Torre.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of Sabana Grande was approximately 25,000 people. The city is predominantly Hispanic, in line with the overall demographics of Puerto Rico. The population is fairly evenly distributed across different age groups, with a slight majority of females over males.
🏛️ History
Sabana Grande was founded on December 21, 1813, by Pedro de Acosta. The city’s name, which translates to “Big Savannah,” is derived from the extensive plains located in this area. Sabana Grande is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, with numerous churches and monuments that date back to the 19th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Sabana Grande is known for its lush greenery and natural beauty. The city is home to the Maricao State Forest, a popular spot for hiking and bird-watching. The forest features a variety of flora and fauna, including numerous endemic species. The city also promotes environmental conservation and sustainability, with several initiatives aimed at preserving its natural resources.
🏫 Education
Education in Sabana Grande is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools that offer education from kindergarten through high school. These include the Sabana Grande District High School and the Susúa Baja Elementary School. There are also several colleges and universities within driving distance, including the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, San Germán Campus.
🚧 Transportation
Sabana Grande is accessible by Puerto Rico Highway 2, a major highway that runs along the southern coast of the island. The city also has a network of local roads for intra-city travel. Public transportation in Sabana Grande is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting. The nearest major airport is the Mercedita Airport in Ponce, which is approximately 30 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Sabana Grande is famous for its annual Festival of the Patron Saints Peter and Paul, a religious and cultural event that attracts visitors from across Puerto Rico. The city is also known for its local crafts, particularly its traditional Puerto Rican masks known as “vejigantes”. Sabana Grande is often referred to as the “City of the Prodigies” due to the number of notable individuals born in the city, including several renowned artists, musicians, and athletes.