What is
CIALES?
Ciales is a small town in Puerto Rico. Our town has a rich history spanning over 200 years. As the ninth largest town among the 77 on the island, we boast a small but vibrant population of seventeen thousand. Nestled in the heart of Puerto Rico, our jibaro’s land is a paradise that goes beyond sparkling water springs, breathtaking sunsets, delectable cuisine, and captivating culture. Visitors who have experienced our charm can attest that Ciales is truly unique.
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The History of Ciales
The town of Ciales was founded on June 24, 1820, by Isidro Rodríguez. There are several versions about the origin of its name, but three are the most sustainable. One a CIBA (indigen word which means stone) word evolution theory by Juan Antonio Corretjer. Second one, “Hato de Ciales” when Ciales belongs to Manati on 1734, and the third one Laci-es in honor to mayor Lacys.
Ciales is located in the north-central part of the island of Puerto Rico. Its territory consists of an area of 66.23 square miles or 43,649 ropes of land. It has eight neighborhoods and Pueblo Centro. These are: Jaguas, Pesas, Pozas, Hato Viejo, Cordillera, Fronton, Cialitos and Black Bull. Composed of alluvial, volcanic rocks and limestone. It is part of the area known as “very humid sub-tropical forest”.
About 8 rivers cross our town: Rio Toro Negro, Rio Encantado. Ciales also has Lake El Guineo, which is 900 meters above sea level and is the highest artificial lake in Puerto Rico.
Their lands are excellent for coffee plantations, tobacco, minor fruits and bananas. The cultivation of coffee has given global prestige to Ciales throughout history. This has been preferred by kings, dignitaries and even the Vatican.
Its people throughout history have been a worthy representation of the good Puerto Rican and the “jibaro aguzao” (“aguzao” which means intelligent). Their warmth, their resilience, their dedication to work are just some of the great qualities they keep.
Abstract shield composition, yellow symbolizing gold. The red symbolizes the coffee and thepurple or purple to the colors of the coat of arms of thefamily of General Lacy, name that tookthe town from its foundation until the year 1823
Our flower
The pabona is the flower symbol of Ciales
Our bird
Warbler bird symbol (Coereva Flavelola)
Our Shield
Purple lion with the roll or diploma represents the Spanish general, native of Catalonia,Don Luis deLacy name that led the town honoring the posthumous memory of this defender
Three roses represent the patroness of Our Lady of the Rosary
Branches of coffee represent the agricultural product that internationally made known to Ciales.
Corona mural is the stamp of blazons of cities, towns and villages. Crown of three towers for its condition of town.
It surrounds the shield by its sides and inferior part a crown of coffee branches with itsberries, all in their red and green colors.
The branches of coffeethat cross at their lower ends are bound by a red ribbon and onthem floats a white flying tape
Common words we use
take some typical words we use in our town and learn our language.
Describes someone who lives in the countryside, engages in farming or agricultural work, and embraces a traditional way of life.
Jíbaro
daily word that we use to wish you a happy day
Buenos Días
Daily word that we use to wish you a good afternoon
Buenas Tardes
daily word that we use to wish you a good night rest and happy dreams
Buenas Noches
Typically a casual, laid-back establishment that offers a variety of local food and drinks, often specializing in traditional dishes and snacks.
Chinchorro
Informal and affectionate term for someone of Puerto Rican descent or who identifies as Puerto Rican. It expresses cultural identity and a strong connection to the homeland.
Boricua
a social activity or outing where a group of friends or family members go on a road trip or excursion to visit different chinchorros (informal bars or restaurants) throughout the island.
Chinchorreo
A traditional Puerto Rican dish that consists of mashed plantains, typically fried and seasoned with garlic, salt, and other spices.
Mofongo
a seasoning blend that is commonly used in Puerto Rican cuisine to add flavor and enhance the taste of various dishes.
Sazón Boricua
It is often described as Puerto Rican moonshine or Puerto Rican rum moonshine. Pitorro is typically produced through the fermentation and distillation of fruits, such as sugarcane, pineapples, or other tropical fruits.
