Culebra

Culebra is a small island-municipality of Puerto Rico located approximately 17 miles east of the mainland of Puerto Rico and 12 miles west of Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. It is part of the Spanish Virgin Islands and is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life.

History

Culebra was originally inhabited by the Taíno people. The island was discovered by Christopher Columbus during his second voyage to the Americas in 1493. It remained largely uninhabited until the late 19th century when it was settled by Spanish colonists. In 1880, the island was officially founded by Cayetano Escudero Sanz under the orders of the Spanish Crown.

Geography

Culebra is approximately 7 miles long and 3 miles wide, with a total area of about 11 square miles. The island is characterized by its hilly terrain and numerous small cays and islets, including Culebrita and Cayo Luis Peña. The highest point on the island is Mount Resaca, which rises to an elevation of 650 feet.

Economy

The economy of Culebra is primarily based on tourism, fishing, and small-scale agriculture. The island is a popular destination for tourists seeking a more tranquil and less commercialized experience compared to the main island of Puerto Rico. Key attractions include Flamenco Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean, and the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, which protects a variety of native flora and fauna.

Transportation

Culebra is accessible by ferry from Fajardo, Puerto Rico and by small aircraft from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The island has a small airport, Benjamin Rivera Noriega Airport, which serves domestic flights.

Culture

Culebra has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its Spanish and Taíno roots. The island hosts several annual festivals, including the Festival de la Virgen del Carmen, which celebrates the patron saint of fishermen. Local cuisine features a mix of traditional Puerto Rican dishes and fresh seafood.

Conservation

Culebra is known for its commitment to environmental conservation. The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1909 and is one of the oldest refuges in the United States. The refuge encompasses over 1,500 acres of land and water, providing habitat for endangered species such as the Hawksbill sea turtle and the Brown pelican.

Related Pages

• Puerto Rico
• Spanish Virgin Islands
• Flamenco Beach
• Culebra National Wildlife Refuge
• Benjamin Rivera Noriega Airport
• Taíno