Experience the heart of life in Mayagüez at Plaza de Colon, a charming public square in the city center. The plaza is one of the sightseeing and cultural focal points in Mayagüez, but it is also a destination in its own right. Take a seat beneath one of the trees that line the edges of the park and enjoy the atmosphere of this welcoming social space.
Plaza de Colon is named after Christopher Columbus, who landed in Puerto Rico in 1493. At first, it was simply known as the Mayagüez City Plaza, but the name was changed to honor the explorer when a statue was added to the square in 1893. Wander to the center of the square to see the sculpture of Columbus, standing on top of a globe. Several more brass statues are dotted around the square.
Stroll around the plaza, one of several similar squares that mark the social center in each city of Puerto Rico. Benches line the edges, offering shaded spots to relax beneath the trees. Come back to the square at Christmas time to see the plaza covered in festive lights.
Admire the two buildings that stand at opposing ends of the plaza. The west side features the neoclassical Alcaldía, or City Hall, which is distinctive for its clock tower and Greek-style portico. The eastern end is dominated by the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, a 1920s reconstruction of an 18th-century cathedral.
Wander around the edges of the square. The surrounding buildings host cafés, banks, a library and independent shops. Buy a drink or ice cream and relax in this serene square. Just off the square lies the Teatro Yaguez, one of the premier arts venues in the city. Take a seat in the Baroque-style venue to watch something from the theater’s varied program.
Plaza de Colon is located centrally in Mayagüez, about 20 minutes from the Marina neighborhood on foot. Take a bus to one of the nearby streets and wander around the square and surrounding area to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere.
