Walking through Old San Juan is like stepping into a living museum. Founded in 1521, this walled city has witnessed conquest, battles, and centuries of everyday life. In this episode, I explore the plazas, streets, and fortresses of Old San Juan — and pair it with a cocktail inspired by the city itself.
San Juan was Spain’s Caribbean stronghold. Its forts — El Morro and San Cristóbal — guarded the harbor against pirates and rival empires. La Fortaleza, built in 1533, remains the oldest executive mansion in the Americas still in use.
Life in San Juan has always revolved around its plazas. Plaza de Armas served as the city’s main square, where people gathered for announcements, celebrations, and markets. Plaza Colón, crowned by a statue of Christopher Columbus, marked the gateway into the walled city. These plazas were, and still are, the heartbeat of the capital.
The city’s colorful colonial houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and lively plazas make it a favorite destination for travelers today.
Cocktail Spotlight
To honor this timeless city, I created the Old San Juan cocktail — a refined blend of aged rum, vermouth, and bitters. Smooth, elegant, and layered with flavor, it mirrors the sophistication of San Juan itself.