Exploring Haunted Spots in San Juan
As an island with thousands of years of history, countless men lost in war, battle, and military justice, it stands to reason that Puerto Rico has a few lingering souls who still haven’t departed. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that Puerto Rico, and San Juan in particular, has seen its share of ghosts. If you are interested in embracing the “spiritual” side of San Juan, consider visiting these hotspots renowned for their paranormal activity.
Castillo San Cristóbal
The imposing Castillo San Cristóbal must be no stranger to spirits. Moreover, it’s the setting for one of Puerto Rico’s most romantic legends. Cayetano Coll y Toste, the Puerto Rican historian and writer, popularized the tale of the executioner’s daughter in a 1925 collection of stories titled Leyendas y Tradiciones Puertorriqueñas (“Puerto Rican Legends and Traditions”).
The story, set in the 1700s, concerns a woman named María Dolores, daughter of the city’s executioner. Unfortunately, María fell in love with a young rogue named Betancourt, a thief who was ultimately caught and executed (by María’s father). Betancourt’s lifeless body hung on the gallows for 24 hours, visible from a hill outside the city walls, where María beheld the tragic scene. Overcome with grief, she ended her own life beside him. In true Shakespearean fashion, her father, upon discovering both bodies, met his own demise. Consequently, the spirits of María Dolores and Betancourt are believed to haunt the very place where they met their tragic ends—where the mighty fortress now stands.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Numerous ghost stories surround El Morro, the venerable fortress overlooking San Juan Bay. There are accounts of the spirit of the White Lady gliding along the ramparts. Many visitors have reported seeing apparitions of soldiers and prisoners roaming the fortress halls.
Interestingly, the chapel within the fortress has also captured the attention of paranormal enthusiasts. Check out what Ghost Hunters uncovered when they visited this serene space.
Hotel El Convento
Hotel El Convento is among the finest accommodations in Puerto Rico. Historic, elegant, and luxurious, it encapsulates the charm of Old San Juan. However, this hotel is also known for hosting some ghostly inhabitants. Numerous sightings have occurred in the guest rooms, often attributed to Doña Ana de Lansos y Menéndez de Valdez, the convent’s founder.
Doña Ana served as the first mother superior, and many believe she never truly departed. Sightings of her and her nuns are common, and visitors have reported hearing the swishing sound of their robes echoing throughout the beautiful hotel, even long after Doña Ana’s passing.
Teatro Tapia
Teatro Tapia is renowned as the oldest free-standing theater under U.S. jurisdiction and boasts a long-standing tradition in Old San Juan as the premier venue for performing arts. The beautiful interior evokes a sense of nostalgia and elegance. However, visitors might encounter spirits from days gone by. Attendees have reported feeling a presence, witnessing apparitions, and hearing unexplained footsteps—classic signs of paranormal activity.
