📍 Location & Geography
Villalba is a city located in the central region of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is nestled in the Cordillera Central mountain range, providing the city with a unique topography of lush hills and valleys. The city is bordered by the municipalities of Juana Díaz to the south, Orocovis to the north, Coamo to the west, and Jayuya to the east.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Villalba, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.1301° N latitude and 66.4921° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Villalba is part of the Villalba County, which is one of the 78 municipalities of Puerto Rico. The city covers an area of approximately 36.2 square miles (93.8 square kilometers), making it one of the smaller municipalities in terms of land area.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Villalba is estimated to be around 24,000 people. The city is predominantly Hispanic, reflecting the overall demographic trend of Puerto Rico. The population is evenly split between males and females, and the median age is around 36 years.
🏛️ History
Villalba was founded in 1917, making it one of the newer municipalities in Puerto Rico. The city was named after its founder, Luis de Villalba y Toledo. Since its founding, Villalba has been known for its agricultural production, particularly coffee, fruits, and tobacco. Over the years, the city has seen a shift from agriculture to manufacturing and services, reflecting the broader economic changes in Puerto Rico.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Villalba is known for its natural beauty, with the surrounding mountains providing a picturesque backdrop. The city is home to several rivers, including the Jacaguas River and the Toa River. The Guayabal Lake, located to the west of the city, is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The city’s climate is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round and a rainy season from April to November.
🏫 Education
Education in Villalba is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. There are also vocational schools and colleges in the nearby areas, providing higher education opportunities for the residents of Villalba.
🚧 Transportation
Villalba is served by a network of highways, including the PR-149 which connects the city to the northern and southern parts of the island. Public transportation in the city is limited, with most residents relying on cars for commuting. The nearest airport is the Mercedita Airport, located about 20 miles to the south in Ponce.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Villalba hosts the Orange Festival, a celebration of the city’s agricultural heritage. The festival features music, food, and cultural events, and attracts visitors from all over Puerto Rico. Villalba is also known for its Christmas celebrations, which are some of the most vibrant in the region.