San Juan

San Juan (pop. 434,800), capital and chief port of Puerto Rico on the northeastern coast of the island. Ponce de León named its bay (Puerto Rico) in the early 1500s, prior to the founding of the city in 1521. The city, which has retained its colonial atmosphere, is known for its fine beaches and exceptional harbor. It is now a trade center producing sugar, rum, metal products, textiles, and furniture, and has a strong tourist industry. Among its landmarks is El Morro castle (begun 1539).

See also: Puerto Rico.