| Recomended for: | Sightseeing, Family, Explorers |
| Hours of Operation: |
Tuesday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Tags: | Morro, Norzagaray, street, Old San Juan, institute, culture, Puerto Rico, ICP, neoclassical, building, Ballajá, government, agency, art, oprhans, handicapped, elderly, renaissance, architect, army, restoration |
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Year Established:
1844 Description: This monumental neoclassical building is situated west of Ballajá. Once a house for the destitute, it now serves as the central offices for the Puerto Rican Institute of Culture, a government agency in charge of promoting the arts. The building’s story begins in 1844, when it opened its doors to the city’s orphans, the handicapped, and the elderly. The original design in the Renaissance style by architect Pedro García was modified in 1897 with the addition of a second level and neoclassical façade. The building suffered extensive damage during the Spanish-American War. In 1929, it became property of the U.S. Army for 45 years. Restoration efforts began in 1989, 15 years after having been abandoned. |
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