A Castle in the Caribbean

# Summary

The article discusses the historical significance and personal experiences associated with Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 500-year-old fortress in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, known locally as 'El Morro.'

# Abstract

Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or 'El Morro,' stands as a testament to Puerto Rico's rich history, reflecting its Spanish heritage and journey as a U.S. territory. The fortress, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay, is a beloved local landmark and a popular tourist destination. The author, a local, shares a personal connection, recalling visits with family and the desire to pass on these traditions to the next generation. With the easing of travel restrictions, the family looks forward to revisiting 'El Morro' to create new memories and potentially uncover unexplored aspects of the historic site.

# Opinions

- The author has a deep personal affection for 'El Morro,' considering it a place that embodies the island's Spanish roots and progress as a U.S. territory.
- The fortress is more than just a historical site; it's a place for family bonding and cultural connection, where the author enjoyed activities like hill rolling and kite flying with loved ones.
- There is an excitement and anticipation to return to 'El Morro' after a hiatus due to the pandemic, with the hope of discovering new historical insights during the upcoming visit.

500 years of history in Old San Juan — Castles and Ruins Part 2

Castillo San Felipe del Morro serves as one of the most iconic places to visit in the Caribbean with 500 years of history. It’s known as ‘El Morro’ by the locals. I am one of those locals. I admit that no matter how many times I go back home to Puerto Rico, I always visit this fortress in Old San Juan. I like to soak in the history of the place as it serves as a reminder of our Spanish roots. It also reminds me of how far we have come as a U.S. territory and how much farther we still need to go.

It’s named after King Philip II of Spain and it is foremost a fortification designed to guard the San Juan Bay. And isn’t it a beautiful bay? The bay overlooks the Atlantic, and ocean views go for miles and miles.

Atlantic Ocean view from the top level of ‘El Morro’ in Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Diana Lotti)

Photo captured from the top level of ‘El Morro’ in Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Diana Lotti)

The last time I was in Puerto Rico, my daughter was old enough to create a memory of ‘El Morro,’ and as her mom, I couldn’t wait to show it to her. I wanted her to roll down the small hill in a race against her dad. I wanted her to fly a kite with the strong ocean winds. I wanted her to eat a ‘Piragua’ (shaved ice covered with a fruity flavored syrup). Basically, I wanted her to experience everything I did with my mom as a small kid. Funny how that works.

San Juan Bay entrance to ‘El Morro’ in Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Diana Lotti)

View of ‘La Garita’ and serves as a sentry box (Photo Credit: Diana Lotti)

Hallway leading to one of the sentry boxes known as ‘La Garita’ (Photo credit: Diana Lotti)

As vaccines continue to roll out and travel restrictions ease, our family is excited to visit the island this summer after more than two years. Of course, we plan to visit ‘El Morro’ again, and we’re set to explore its surroundings in further detail to see if we discover something new. I’m sure that we will.

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Photography

A Castle in the Caribbean

500 years of history in Old San Juan — Castles and Ruins Part 2

Castles and Ruins

Castles and Ruins