📍 Location & Geography
Utuado is a city located in the central mountainous region of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. It is bordered by Arecibo to the north, Lares and Adjuntas to the south, Jayuya to the east, and Hatillo and Camuy to the west. The city is known for its rugged terrain, with the highest peak being Cerro Rosa at 3,953 feet above sea level. The city is also home to several rivers, including the Rio Grande de Arecibo and the Rio Vivi.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Utuado are approximately 18.27 degrees north latitude and 66.70 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Utuado is part of the UTUADO county in Puerto Rico. It spans over an area of approximately 114 square miles (295 km²), making it the third-largest municipality in Puerto Rico by land area.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Utuado was estimated to be around 30,000 in 2020. The population is predominantly Hispanic or Latino, with a significant majority of the residents being of Puerto Rican descent. The median age in Utuado is around 40 years, and the city has an almost equal distribution of males and females.
🏛️ History
Utuado was founded on October 12, 1739, by Sebastián de Morfi, making it one of the oldest cities in Puerto Rico. The city was originally populated by the Taíno Indians, who named it “Otoao,” which means “between mountains.” The name was later changed to Utuado. The city has a rich history of coffee production and was once known as the “City of the Viví,” named after the Viví River that runs through it.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Utuado is known for its natural beauty, with lush mountains and flowing rivers. It is home to the Rio Abajo State Forest, a popular spot for hiking and bird watching. The city is also close to the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park, which features ancient petroglyphs and monoliths. Moreover, the Dos Bocas Lake, a man-made reservoir, offers stunning views and boat rides to local restaurants.
🏫 Education
Education in Utuado is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. For higher education, the city is home to the Utuado Campus of the University of Puerto Rico, which offers various undergraduate and graduate programs.
🚧 Transportation
Utuado is accessible by Puerto Rico Highway 10, which connects the city to Arecibo and Ponce. The city also has a network of local roads that connect the various neighborhoods. Public transportation in Utuado is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting. The nearest airport is the Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla, about an hour’s drive from the city.
📜 Trivia & Events
Utuado is known for its annual Coffee Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich history of coffee production. The festival features coffee tastings, local food, live music, and artisan crafts. The city is also famous for its indigenous heritage, with the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park being one of the most important archaeological sites in the West Indies.