Barceloneta, Puerto Rico
(barselo'neta)
Barceloneta is known as La Ciudad de las Piñas (pineapple city), because of its extensive pineapple plantations, which covers a large part of the town's land.
The town was founded in July 1, 1881 by Bonocio Llenza Feliu. Bonocio named the city Barceloneta because it brought back loving memories of his hometown Barcelona, back in Spain.
Barceloneta has the biggest pharmaceutical complex in the world (14 industries). It is known that these companies have chosen Barceloneta to establish their facilities for its underground water reservoirs. The water in Barceloneta is so pure that it requires very little treatment for use in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products.
Barceloneta is also famous for its black sand beaches, due to the high iron content found in the sand.
Points of Interest and Landmarks
The Biblioteca Electronica Sixto Escobar serves not only the needs of students and researchers but also houses houses objects and memorabilia of the famous boxer, Sixto Excobar, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1950. For inquiries and further information, call (787) 846-7056.
The Cambalache Forest Reserve is home to plantations of eucalyptus, teak, and mahoe trees, offering camping facilities in two designated areas. Visitors can access water and showers, explore 8 trails, and enjoy proximity to a nearby beach. The reserve is located on Rd #682 km 6.6. For futher information, call (787) 724-3724.
Located in the heart of the city, Centro Cultural de Barceloneta offers insights into the cultural and historical heritage of Barceloneta. Visitors can explore a collection of arqueological artifacts and Taino pieces. The center is open Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm, and for further information, call (787) 846-4199.
Barceloneta is also home to the Prime Outlets, conveniently located on De Diego Expressway Route 227, Barceloneta Exit 55. The outlets are open Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 9pm. For inquiries, call (787) 846-5300.
Other places worth exploring include:
- Rafael Balseiro Maseira School, built in 1921
- Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, built in 1908
- Jose Ignacio Machado Sports Field
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Church
- La Monserrate Refinery Ruins
- Las Criollas Beach
- Palmas Altas Beach
- Centro Cultural Sixto Escobar
Geography
Barceloneta is located in the north region, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, north of Florida, east of Arecibo, and west of Manatí.
The Grande de Manatí River tavels across the town, the river is 73 km (45 mi) in length.
Barceloneta is made up of 4 barrios (wards/districts):
- Garrochales
- Florida Afuera
- Pueblo
- Palmas Altas
Climate
The annual precipitation is approximately 53.01 inches, and its average temperature is 77.8°F. June is the warmest, February is the coolest, and the westest month is November. The highest recorded temperature was 99°F in 1969. The lowest recorded temperature was 50°F in 1965.
BARCELONETA WEATHER10 Day Forecast from weather.com
Notable People
There are many well-known "barcelonetences", among them:
- Sixto Escobar, the first Puerto Rican to win a boxing championship of the National Boxing Association
- Jose Agustin Balseiro, writer
- Benito de Jesus Negron, composer
- Blanca MAria Marchand, poet
Restaurants
- CKcafe (American), (787) 846-0404
- Villamar (Puerto Rican), (787) 846-4480
Festivals and Events
- Festival de Bomba y Plena - October
- Festival de Musica Tipica - June
- Festival de Verano - June
- Fiestas Patronales de la Virgen del Carmen - July
Every year, Barceloneta celebrates a patron saint festival. The festivities include dances, food, parades and religious processions. (787) 846-2030 or (787) 846-3835
Symbols
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