Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes

Known as one of the most beautiful historical sites in Puerto Rico, the Centro Ceremonial Indgena de Tibes is another important Tano archeological site on the Island's coastal south side, located in Ponce, about an hour and a half drive from San Juan. Evidence of pre-Tano civilizations was discovered during intense rains and river flooding in 1975. Seven batteries, two ceremonial plazas, and hundreds of bone constructions and implements were discovered during excavations in the area. Several weapons, clay artifacts, and statues symbolizing deities, or comes, are on display at a museum in the park. A bilingual one-hour tour that includes a visit to the museum and a film can be arranged.

The site's greatest period of occupation, according to archeological examination and radiocarbon dating, was from 400 to 1000 AD. Several stone-lined courts/plazas are shaded by native trees on the site. Tainos are thought to have been the last people to live on the site. The Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center is one of the Caribbean's largest and most prominent indigenous sites, as well as Puerto Rico's largest ceremonial site. This is also thought to be the Antilles' oldest astronomical observatory, based on the orientation of the ceremonial plazas. The museum first opened its doors in 1982 and was restored in 1991.

Location: Ponce, Puerto Rico

Timing: 8:30 am - 3:00 pm