Tours & experiences

Signs and Wonders in Old San Juan History Culture and Mysteries

About this experience

Delve into the captivating history and spiritual essence of Old San Juan on this exclusive walking tour. Explore the city's rich tapestry, from its Taino, Spanish, and African influences to the historical structures and plazas that tell its story. Led by a certified local guide with a Master's in Behavioral Sciences, uncover the miraculous events that shaped Puerto Rico's culture and identity. Visit significant spiritual sites and learn about the fascinating tales of pirates, inquisitions, and miracles that define this vibrant city.

- Expert-guided tour through the historic streets of Old San Juan
- Experience the spiritual and miraculous events that shaped the city
- Learn from a local resident with deep cultural insights

At a glance

  • Duration: 2 hr

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Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Signs and Wonders in Old San Juan History Culture and Mysteries

Plan your experience

Time on the tour2 hr
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 2 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes

What is included

  • Local Guide (English, Spanish)

Not included

  • Meals
  • Transportation
  • Gratuities

Itinerary and highlights

Walking along Paseo La Princesa, we will pass by the Spanish Prison, located outside the city wall.
Ask about... the Dungeons and tortures including the local revolutionary leader, Alzibu Campos, a Harvard graduate.
(Entrance subject to venue opening hours)

Enter through the San Juan gate and discover its architecture and a profound interpretation of the logistics of the conquerors who used Old San Juan as an operations post.
Ask about ...the width of the gate.

Second oldest church in America, built in 1521.
Ask about ...Juan Ponce de Leon tomb
(Entrance subject to venue opening hours)(Donation may be required, not included)

Take a look at a place where miracles happened. Discover the story behind its construction, which began in 1753. Built above the city wall.
Ask about ...what happened to the horse rider Baltasar Montañez

Built in 1646. Discover why the first convent on the island was created.
The convent closed in 1903 and today it is a hotel that has witnessed numerous stories told by its guests.
Ask about... the widow Ana de Lansós

Understand the significance of the Rogativa sculpture, practically a monument for most Puerto Ricans. The fierce resistance of Spaniards and Creoles wasn't enough. A miracle was needed.
Ask about ...what happened in the largest British attack of 1797

Take a view of The Santa Catalina Palace and the Fortress, the first fortification built to defend the city of San Juan and the first in a series of military forts. Its construction was a protective measure against attacks by indigenous people, corsair, and pirates. Construction began in 1533.
Ask about ...the last spaniard governor Ricardo Ortega and the broken clock

Take a look at one of the oldest houses in America, built in 1521 after the first settlements moved in.
Ask about …who lived the house.

Pass by the former Beneficence Asylum and the Insular Asylum, whose construction began in 1840, originally intended to house orphans, the mentally ill and other people in need.
Ask about... a bomb incident during the Hipanic-American War.

Build in 1539. At El Morro, in addition to enjoying the majestic view, you will learn about the executions, attacks, and sieges that took place there. More than 250 years of expansion and modification, transforming it into a multi-level fortress to protect the strategic port of San Juan from maritime attacks.You will also learn how tunnels were built to connect with other forts and allow the passage of troops and ammunition.
Ask about...what happened to Roberto Cofresi (pirate Cofresi)

The third oldest church in America (1532). Discover why it is said to have been the site of many miracles and wondrous events.
(Entrance subject to venue opening hours)(Donation may be required, not included)
Ask about ...“La Virgen de Belen”

Discover the hidden facts about this cemetery outside of the city wall where most prominent puertorricans are at rest.
Ask about... local meaning "Pateco took that one” (Se lo llevo Pateco)

Founded in the 16th century by the Dominican order, it has served various purposes throughout the centuries, including a refuge for friars, a school, and even a military hospital.
Ask about... the famous puertorrican corsair Miguel Enriques.

Take a view of this sentry box, built in 1634, is one of the oldest military structure in Old San Juan. Discover the legends that explain why soldiers used to disappear…
Ask about...what happened to Private Sanchez

We will visit the sentry box and the main entrance overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and hear stories about executions, attacks, and supernatural phenomena.
Ask about...what happened to the cistern and the figurine of Saint Christopher (patron saint of the fort).

Discover the stories and legends of this theater built in 1824, such as apparitions of a dead dancer, screams of burned witches, and a human stampede that left four children dead.
Ask about ...“Tree kings Day” and the Inquisition of witches 1591

Finally in the drop off area you will receive a summary of Old San Juan history, destruction of the gate, the construction of Casino de Puerto Rico and the first school build by the U.S. outside of the mainland.  
Ask where the city gate was located and how was destroyed.

Meeting and pickup information

  • We will meet at the "I Love San Juan" sign

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Jose Puerto Rico Tours

Accessibility and practical details

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Only adults. No availability for special accommodation
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Dress comfortably as weather is hot
  • Travelers Must Be fit for walking long distances (3 miles)

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 2 hr.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Adult tickets: age 15+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What accessibility information is provided?
Service animals allowed
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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