Mayagüez, Puerto Rico

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Mayagüez, Puerto Rico is a municipality located on the western coast of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and significant contributions to the island's economy. Mayagüez serves as the eighth-largest city in Puerto Rico and is often referred to as "La Sultana del Oeste" (The Sultaness of the West), "La Ciudad de las Aguas Puras" (The City of Pure Waters), or "El Pueblo del Mangó" (The Town of the Mango).

History

The city of Mayagüez was founded on September 18, 1760, by a group of families led by Faustino Martínez de Matos, Juan de Silva, and Juan de Aponte, at a hill located about one mile from the Mayagüez Bay. It was officially established as a town by the Spanish Crown in 1763. Throughout the 19th century, Mayagüez saw significant growth due to its port, which became a major point of entry for goods and immigrants, particularly from the Dominican Republic and Europe.

Geography

Mayagüez is located on the western coast of Puerto Rico, bordering the Mona Passage to the west, which separates the island from Hispaniola. The municipality covers an area of approximately 77 square miles (200 km²), making it one of the largest cities in Puerto Rico by land area. The terrain is mostly hilly with the city itself located in the coastal valley.

Economy

The economy of Mayagüez has traditionally been based on agriculture, specifically the cultivation of sugarcane, coffee, and fruits. In recent decades, the economy has diversified into manufacturing, particularly in the pharmaceutical, technology, and textile industries. The University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (UPRM), one of the leading engineering schools in the Caribbean, plays a significant role in the city's economy through research and development.

Culture

Mayagüez is known for its cultural contributions, particularly in the fields of music, literature, and the arts. The city hosts several annual festivals, including the Festival de la Calle San Sebastián and the Mayagüez Carnival. The Yagüez Theater, a historic building, is a key venue for performances and cultural events.

Education

The University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (UPRM) is the most prominent educational institution in the city, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is renowned for its engineering, agricultural, and marine sciences programs. Mayagüez also has a variety of public and private schools offering primary and secondary education.

Transportation

Mayagüez is served by the Eugenio María de Hostos Airport, which handles domestic flights. The city's port is one of the largest on the island, accommodating both commercial and recreational vessels. Public transportation includes buses and the "Mayagüez Urbano" trolley service, providing connectivity within the city and to neighboring municipalities.

Sports

The city is home to the Indios de Mayagüez, a professional baseball team that competes in the Puerto Rico Baseball League. Mayagüez also hosted the 2010 Central American and Caribbean Games, which significantly improved the city's sports infrastructure.

Notable People

Several notable individuals hail from Mayagüez, including: - Antonio S. Pedreira, a distinguished educator and writer. - Hans Lebrecht, an influential composer and musician. - Juan Mari Brás, a prominent advocate for Puerto Rican independence.

See Also

• List of municipalities in Puerto Rico
• Puerto Rico

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