Just a few days ago I took an exciting trip to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. This charming place, nestled in the southeastern tip of the island, offers a unique combination of rich history, vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the sight of the majestic flag waving proudly in the wind as I looked around the picturesque coast and its many landmarks.

This place, with its vibrant culture and rich history, is a destination you must visit at least once in your lifetime. As I explored this charming town, my attention was drawn to the dramatic contrast of the rocky shore. The rock formations, carved by the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean, create a sight that complements the charming atmosphere of the city.

I had the opportunity to try the local beer Medalla light. This popular beer brand is an integral part of the city's cultural scene, and its distinctive taste and history added another layer of fascination to my trip. This beer has a rich history that dates back to 1895, when Cervecería de Puerto Rico, the brand's parent company, was founded. Initially, the brewery produced mostly German lager-style beer, but in the 1930s it began experimenting with new recipes, including the creation of the first local beer known as Medalla. This drink has become a symbol of Puerto Rican pride and culture, winning numerous awards and accolades both nationally and internationally. Today, it continues to be one of Puerto Rico's most popular beer brands, prized for its balanced taste, smooth texture and strong connection to the island's heritage.

One of the things that struck me upon entering Old San Juan was the vibrant colors of its traditional houses. These architectural structures are emblematic of the city's cultural heritage and contribute significantly to its distinctive character. Houses range from bright shades of blue, green and pink to warm earth tones such as brown, yellow and red. Each house tells a story, reflecting the mix of Spanish colonial, African and indigenous influences that have shaped the city's identity over the centuries.

Interestingly, the use of such colors in the architecture of Old San Juan has its own explanation from the residents. Early settlers introduced the practice of painting buildings in bright colors as a way to protect them from moisture and termites. This method, known as "tiempo", aims to create a sense of cleanliness and hygiene in urban areas that years ago were known for their narrow streets and overcrowded living conditions.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro, also known as El Morro, is an impressive fortress located on the eastern edge of the city. This 16th-century fortification stands as a testament to the island's military history and its strategic importance in protecting the port of San Juan from potential threats. El Morro was built between 1534 and 1598 by order of King Philip II of Spain, as part of a larger defensive system designed to protect Spanish territories in the New World. The fortress was designed by the famous military architect Juan Bautista Antonio de Arevalo, who oversaw the construction of many similar structures in the region.

It is a truly fascinating place that offers a unique combination of military history, architectural wonder and beautiful views of the San Juan harbor.

If you also want to tell about your trip, you can join this contest
https://steemit.com/hive-185836/@benoitblanc/2bv6o5-wox-travel-contest-or-week-4
Organized by @benoitblanc