AS YOU APROACH TO GUAYAMA, THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF ITS GREEN FIELDS, AN IMMACULATE DOWNTOWN AREA, AND A COAST OF UNPARALLELED APPEAL HERALD AN ADVENTURE FULL OF HISTORY, CULTURE, AND FINE DINING. THESE ARE PART OF THE HALLMARKS THAT MAKE RESIDENTS AND VISITORS ALIKE FALL IN LOVE WITH GUAYAMA’S UNIQUE CHARM.
By: Robert Colberg Orengo
Photos: Yoel Parrilla and Juan José Rodrígue
Past and Present Go Hand in Hand
The architecture that surrounds the Ciudad Bruja’s (Witch City) downtown area showcases the historical wealth of a coastal area that flirts with the mountain region. Other facilities brimming with evident modern air coexist here, adding variety to Guayama’s many tourism-oriented offerings. Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes, and get ready to have a great time with your whole family! The photos and videos you’ll capture to perpetuate your visit here will be simply spectacular. You can explore locations on your own, but it is advisable to take advantage of the free trolleybus tour. An expert guide will provide information on the tourism attractions that are located in the downtown area. Call the Municipal Tourism Office at 787-866- 2506 for more details about available tour schedules.
SAN ANTONIO DE PADUA CHURCH
The only neo-romantic style church in Puerto Rico took 40 years to build (1827-1867). Here’s an interesting fact: two clocks are displayed on the façade; one is a hand-painted timepiece that marks the time when the church was baptized, and the other was brought from Switzerland.
CRISTÓBAL COLÓN SQUARE
In its center rests the water fountain donated by former Mayor Genaro Cautiño in 1918. Around it, 16 gardens featuring leafy laurel trees (planted in 1895) provide cooling shade to the 118 benches and the three monuments you’ll find there: two in honor of the Guayama-born soldiers who perished during different wars and one that highlights the life and work of writer Luis Palés Matos.
One City, Three Gastronomic Routes
The culinary wealth of Guayama is evident in its Gastronomic Routes. Whether in the downtown area, on the coast or while enjoying the mountains’ greenery, you will find a restaurant endorsed by this program. Puerto Rican treats have their place on this route, as do international dishes. Did you know that Puerto Rico’s most delicious pastelillos (fried turnovers) as well as the island’s largest alcapurrias (meat- or seafood-filled fritters) are found in Guayama?
The event known as Noches de Encanto (Enchanting Nights)—which is held once a month in the Cristóbal Colón Square—will allow you to sample the local gastronomic varieties, as well as enjoy art exhibits, performances, and shows.
CASA CAUTIÑO MUSEUM
This majestic building built in 1887 is located on one side of Cristóbal Colón Square. It was designed by Guayama-born architect Manuel Texidor and served as the home of three generations of the prestigious Cautiño family, known for their contributions to the town’s culture and development. Casa Cautiño, one of the best examples of of neoclassical architecture with evident criollo influences, exhibits much of its former inhabitants’ furniture and belongings.
EL LEGADO GOLF COURSE
A beautiful 285-hectare valley surrounded by the Central Mountain Range and caressed by the Caribbean Sea is the setting for this 7,200-yard 18-hole course. At its Guamaní restaurant you can sample exquisite dishes from our local cuisine and enjoy a great variety of drinks while basking in the breathtaking view. Learn more about the restaurant’s hours of operation and prices by calling 787-866-8894.
PUNTA POZUELO
This is one of those places where you feel so comfortable that you will want to come back again and again. The impressive view of Jobos Bay is the top attraction, followed closely by the restaurants where you can enjoy tasty Puerto Rican and international delicacies. You can take a boat trip through the bay and the nearby mangroves that are part of the Jobos Bay Reserve.
ADOLFO PORRATA DORIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
It originally housed the Superior Court of Guayama. This classic ionic building built in 1927 now features an art exhibit room, expo-theater, and a hall for cultural events. In the lobby you can admire a collection of 180 Bibles from different parts of the world, including the smallest known to date.
Other Places to Visit
• Town Hall
• Guayama Theater
• Casa del Rey
• Casa del Poeta
• Totem: Urban Memory
• Catalino “Tite” Curet Alonso Convention Center
• Carite Forest
• Yacht Club
• Club Náutico
At www.visitaguayama.com you can get more information about these and other attractions to include on your tour.
Interesting Facts
• Guayama comes from “Guamaní,” a Taíno indigenous word given to the area or the river, which means “our path” or “big place.” Another version points to Guayama, an indigenous chieftain captured by the Spaniards and exiled to the Dominican Republic. That is why the town is also known as “La Ciudad del Guamaní” (“The City of Guamaní”).
• The town’s nicknames “Pueblo de los Brujos” (“Witches’ Town”) and “La Ciudad Bruja” (“Witch City”) come from Moncho el Brujo, a well-known local baseball pitcher. Legend says that Guayama’s inhabitants brought candles, magic powders, and wild herbs to the games to intimidate opponents.
