Discovery of Puerto Rico

The Discovery of Puerto Rico, celebrated annually on November 19th, commemorates the day in 1493 when Christopher Columbus first arrived on the island during his second voyage to the New World. This historic event marked the beginning of Spanish colonization and the blending of Taíno, African, and European cultures that define Puerto Rican identity today. The holiday is observed with cultural events, educational activities, and reflections on the island's rich history and heritage. It serves as a reminder of Puerto Rico's significance in the broader context of the Americas and its enduring legacy as a crossroads of cultures.