Things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico: The Best Government Buildings

Visitors can take guided tours through this World Heritage Site, a 40-room mansion completed in 1540 that was used to defend against foreign invaders.

Visitors to the Capitol can make a reservation for a guided tour. The history of the Capitol building began on February 7, 1907, when Don Luis Munoz Rivera, an important figure of the political history of Puerto Rico and legislator at the time, introduced House Bill 84 to the House of Delegates. Although the bill was passed and a neoclassical design had been chosen, the construction of the Capitol encountered several fiscal, economic and political difficulties which resulted in the work being suspended twice. Despite all difficulties encountered throughout the years, the Capitol building was finally inaugurated on February 11, 1929. On June 30, 1977, the Capitol of Puerto Rico was designated a Historic Landmark and on November 18, 1977, it was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places.

Several sources have written that El Palacio de la Real Intendencia, Puerto Rico's former Department of Treasure, is one of the most beautiful examples of Neoclassical architecture in Puerto Rico. Situated on the westernmost side of Plaza de Armas, this building is comprised of three levels: the first level is identifiable by the bossage, which cleverly heightens the second level by differentiating it so starkly; the second level is marked by the fluted pilasters and the doors with balconies that overlook the plaza; finally, the third level has the smaller two-paned windows, which gracefully flow with the pilaster/bay pattern that adorn the building. From 1852 to 1969 the Palacio de la Real Intendencia served as the Department of Treasure; nowadays, however, it houses the Department of State. Inside, you can appreciate its gallery-like composition: a patio resides at the center of the structure and offices surrounding it. Also, don't miss the stone well that sits on the patio!

Casa Espana has been the venue for luxurious weddings, official events and other celebrations. The Spain House in Puerto Rico was founded in 1914 with the support of Antonio Alvarez Nava, the then president of the Spanish Casino, from where the House of Spain first operated until 1935.The creation of this entity was proposed by the Spanish merchant Antonio Caubet Pons, who became its first treasurer, and Abelardo de la Haba, the first president of the institution. In 1934 President D. Miguel Such, a Spanish businessman established in Puerto Rico, was chosen to manage the donation of the site by the government of Puerto Rico.Casa de Espana was designed by Pedro De Castro y Besosa, one of the most prestigious architects in Puerto Rico in the first half of the 20th century. The building enjoys a delicate architecture of a predominantly Andalusian style where multiple towers, viewpoints, tiles, polychrome tiles, arches, lanterns and an immense and beautiful inner courtyard stand out. All these characteristics of the Andalusian architectural style are manifested in various facilities such as the Hall of Mirrors, the Library Room, an Exhibition Hall, the Patio Andaluz, the terraces/viewpoints on the roof and the Casa de Espana Restaurant.

Built in stages from 1604 to 1789 and resembling the city hall in Madrid, Spain, this government building also houses a tourist information center and a small gallery of rotating exhibitions.

Biblioteca Carnegie is not your typical library, this has a lot of historical value for being the first building specialized for a library in Puerto Rico. The building was designed by Ramon Carbia in 1915. The governor of Puerto Rico at the time accepted a donation from Andrew Carnegie and in 1917 the Insular library was moved to this building. It has a neoclassical architectural style. Come by and hit some books or enjoy the space this library provides. Check their calendar for events listings!

The construction of this building started in 1934 as a venue for the Association of Teachers of Puerto Rico (known as "Asociacion de Maestros de Puerto Rico".) A venue for this Association in 1935 to 1942. Designed with the intention to reflect culture, sophistication, and elegance. Political and social events were taken place here. Come by and experience this infused historical experience!

San Juan's town hall sits in front of the centric Plaza de Armas, right at the heard of the walled city. Its iconic facade of pillars and arches is reminiscent of the late Renaissance architecture, although the construction of the structure started around the turn of the 18th century. Over the centuries the town hall experienced numerous additions, expansions and remodelations. Its final design was completed in 1842 by architect Pedro Garcia. Inside you can admire its regal staircase and walk around its patios. On the first floor you'll find the San Juan Bautista gallery, which is destined to showcase works of art made by Puerto Rican artists. On the second floor, you'll find the Sala Capitular, where many decisions regading the fate of San Juan--and Puerto Rico--were signed.