hen the Spanish settled San Juan in 1521, they quickly recognized the value of Puerto Rico’s capital city. It became an important port, outpost, and gateway for exploration of the Americas. Spain’s enemies, primarily the British and the Dutch, coveted its strategic military location. Its excellent harbor was one of the largest and best in the Caribbean. To the Spanish, San Juan was one of the most valuable jewels in their empire. They went to great lengths to protect it. The city’s defenses during Spanish colonial rule covered 250 acres and left just 62 acres for other buildings.
