Lares Puerto Rico

Mirador Mariana Bracetti

Ciudad de los Patriotas

Lares is a town located in the central-western region of Puerto Rico. It is also known as the "Ciudad de los Patriotas" or the "City of the Patriots" due to its rich history of resistance and revolutionary movements. Lares was founded on April 26, 1827, by Francisco de Sotomayor and Pedro Vélez Borrero.

Lares is best known for the Grito de Lares, a significant event in Puerto Rican history that occurred on September 23, 1868. The Grito de Lares was a call for independence from Spanish rule, and it marked the beginning of a revolutionary movement in Puerto Rico. It was led by a group of revolutionary nationalists, including Ramón Emeterio Betances and Segundo Ruiz Belvis, who sought to establish an independent and sovereign Puerto Rico. Although the revolt was unsuccessful, it paved the way for future generations to continue the fight for Puerto Rican independence.

The patron saint of Lares is San Sebastián, and the town's colors are blue and white. Lares has several sites of interest that reflect its rich history and culture. The Plaza de la Revolución is a central gathering place that features a statue of Ramón Emeterio Betances, one of the leaders of the Grito de Lares. The plaza is also home to the Casa Museo Ramón Emeterio Betances, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Betances.

Hacienda Lealtad

Another notable site in Lares is the Hacienda Lealtad, a former coffee plantation that played an important role in the town's economy during the 19th century. The Hacienda now serves as a museum that showcases the history of coffee cultivation in Puerto Rico.

One of the most significant sites in Lares is the Monumento al Grito de Lares, a massive structure that commemorates the revolutionary movement that began in the town. The monument features a massive statue of a woman, representing the people of Puerto Rico, holding a flag and standing on a pedestal inscribed with the date of the Grito de Lares. The monument serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and struggles of the patriots who fought for Puerto Rican independence.

In conclusion, Lares is a town with a rich history and culture. Its nickname "Ciudad de los Patriotas" reflects its prominent role in Puerto Rico's struggle for independence from Spanish rule. The Grito de Lares, which began in Lares, marks a significant moment in Puerto Rican history and serves as a symbol of the fight for independence. Lares's patron saint is San Sebastián, and the town's colors are blue and white. The town features several sites of interest, including the Plaza de la Revolución, the Hacienda Lealtad, and the Monumento al Grito de Lares, which showcase the town's history, culture, and struggle for independence.