Parque bombas ponce: Parque de Bombas | Discover Puerto Rico
Parque de Bombas de Ponce. Arquitectura gótica victoriana en Puerto Rico
Fue la primera estación de bomberos de Puerto Rico.
Parque de Bombas de Ponce, es una antigua edificación que ahora funciona como museo y es monumento de la ciudad de Ponce.
Imagen antigua de la Estación de Bomberos
A fines del siglo XIX cuando en esa parte del sur de Puerto Rico todavía estaba en manos españolas, fue entonces cuando un miembro del ejército español es el arquitecto encargado de realizar el proyecto.
Imagen de la epoca
La estructura fue diseñada por el coronel Máximo Meana y Guridi. Es una estructura erigida en madera, de estilo victoriano con elementos arabescos que se inauguraría a finales del 1882.
Se compone de un espacio central amplio y abierto, flanqueado por dos torres laterales, y con dos pisos de altura.
El espacio abierto se utilizaba como garaje para los camiones de bomberos, y las dos torres como viviendas y áreas de exposición.
Una escalera con barandilla de hierro fundido conducía a un altillo utilizado como oficinas administrativas.
Vista del conjunto desde satélite
Y resulta poco usual, el hecho de que un parque de bombas este ubicado en el centro de la plaza principal de la ciudad.
Imagen de carpinteria de fachada
El rojo y negro con el que se decoraron los paramentos exteriores son los colores simbólicos de la ciudad.
El edificio primero sirvió para realizar algunas ferias de agricultura y después sí se instalaron allí los equipos de la primera brigada de bomberos de la ciudad.
vista actual museo segunda planta
En 1883, un enorme fuego amenazó el sur de Puerto Rico, los bomberos del Parque de Bombas lucharon contra el fuego, tardando varios días en extinguirlo.
Por esa razón, el grupo ha sido honrado muchas veces en Ponce y el resto de Puerto Rico, hoy en día de homenajea a esos bomberos de Ponce en las pareces del Museo.
vista actual museo planta baja
En 1885, la estación se nombró oficialmente como Estación de Bomberos de Ponce, de forma que toda operación relacionada con Ponce y las ciudades adyacentes era atendida desde el Parque de Bombas; en ese tiempo, Máximo Meana, el arquitecto de la estación, fue nombrado alcalde de Ponce.
Y en el 1990, se convirtió en museo y en ese mismo año fue restaurado bajo la administración de Rafael Cordero Santiago.
Actualmente se exhiben piezas del antiguo equipo contra incendios de la ciudad y recuerdos de los bomberos integrantes del cuerpo.
Siendo la primera estación de bomberos de Puerto Rico, su inclusión en el l Registro Nacional de Lugares Históricos se realizó en 1984.
Imágenes: © Jesús Rodriguez-Benabe, archivofotograficodepuertorico.com, Saritza Zambrana, Indicepr.com, Mapio.net, destinoinfinito.com, Un lugar al día – blogger, RUTA 33, Caribe.
Parque De Bombas In Ponce, Puerto Rico
Ponce, commonly known as La Ciudad Señorial (The Manorial City) or La Perla del Sur (Pearl Of The South) is the second most important city in Puerto Rico, after San Juan.
The town of Ponce is rich in culture, colonial architecture, and history; and those three things are what you will find at Parque De Bombas de Ponce (Ponce’s Old Fire Station).
I lived in Ponce for three years while attending law school, and now I guide historical tours in this beautiful city.
In this article, I will cover everything that you need to know about Parque De Bombas in Ponce, Puerto Rico:
– What is Parque De Bombas?
– What is the history of Parque De Bombas?
– Where is it located?
– Other Frequently Asked Questions
What is Parque De Bombas?
Parque De Bombas (Old Fire Station) is a former Firehouse that houses a museum honoring Ponce’s firefighters’ bravery and legacy.
Spanish Army Lieutenant Colonel Maxino Mena designed the wooden structure for the 1882 Exhibition Trade Fair.
In 1885 the city made the building Ponce’s Official Firehouse.
Parque De Bombas is one of Ponce’s most important historical sites and a place that many people go to take photos in front of the buildings uniquely colored exterior.
The place served as a Fire Station for over a hundred years.
After closing Parque de Bombas in 1990, the city turned the building into a museum.
Parque de Bombas is one of the most emblematic structures in Ponce, if not in all of Puerto Rico.
They painted the building with bright red and jet-black lines, the official colors of the town of Ponce.
This is one of the top Things To Do In Ponce.
What is the history of Parque De Bombas?
Parque de Bombas is a small museum with an extensive history.
During your visit to Parque de Bombas, you will experience the evolution of firefighting in Puerto Rico.
They divided the Museum into two floors.
Inside the structure, you can learn about the history of firefighting in Puerto Rico.
You will find horse-pulled vehicles and a vintage fire engine on the first floor.
The second floor has firefighting utensils and paintings of former firefighters.
The only access to the second floor is using stairs.
Explore the museum to discover different historical artifacts, like a vintage fire truck.
Of the many paintings in the Museum, one tells the story of the firefighting heroes of Ponce.
Allow me to tell you the story of Los Heroes del Polvorin (The Heroes Of The Gunpowder Warehouse)
Los Heroes del Polvorin painting is displayed at the center of the stairs in the museum.
Around Nine PM on January 25, 1899, a spark set on fire the hay of the stables in the United States Army gunpowder and ammunition warehouse, putting the whole city in great danger.
Firefighters from Parque de Bombas rushed to the site, but army officials told them that trying to extinguish the fire was too risky.
The army officials ordered the Ponce firefighters to head back and evacuate the city.
Seven firefighters and a civilian disobeyed the Army’s direct order and extinguished the fire risking their lives.
The eight men faced a court-martial, but the Army dismissed the charges.
The city named those eight men “Heroes of Ponce” and built houses for them on January 25 street.
A historical image of the houses built for the brave firefighters that saved the city of ponce.
The red and black houses are still standing after a hundred as a testimony of these men’s bravery.
A present day image of the Hero’s of Ponce’s houses.
Where is it located?
Ponce’s Old Fire Station is in Las Delicias Plaza (Ponce’s Town Square), directly behind Ponce’s Our Lady Of Guadalupe Cathedral.
The Parque de Bombas in located directly in the central plaza of Ponce.
Local Tip: Ponce’s heat is legendary; it goes over a hundred degrees daily. Use sunblock and drink plenty of water.
Once you have seen the Parque de Bombas, you can cross the street and have Ice Cream at Los Chinos King’s Cream. That is the best way to beat Ponce’s heat.
FAQ section
Is it worth visiting?
Yes, Parque de Bombas is worth visiting. You can take pictures and learn about history; your children or inner child will love the antique fire engines.
Is there an entrance fee?
The Parque de Bombas is a Municipal Museum, and the entrance is free of charge. Parking space is available around Las Delicias Town Square.
Final thoughts
If you are visiting Ponce, you should stop at Parque de Bombas.
Ponce’s Old Fire Station is a museum honoring the legacy of the brave firefighters from the past and present who risk their lives daily to keep us safe.
For more information about Ponce, please check our article Ponce, Puerto Rico – All You Need To Know by Cristina Rosa and 7 Best Beaches In Ponce by Adriana Mercado.
You may also like our article 25 Best Things To Do In Ponce.
Article by
Carlos Cubero
Writer at PuertoRico.com. I was born in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. I’m passionate about Puerto Rican history and culture. I live on the west coast of Puerto Rico, and host an Airbnb for tourists. I also coordinate tours and concierge services for tourists. I authored “Eat Like A Local, Puerto Rico”, and have contributed to blogs and magazines with articles about discovering and enjoying what Puerto Rico has to offer.
About the author
Parque de Bomba
Parque de Bombas (English firehouse [a] ) is a historic former fire station in Ponce, Puerto Rico. It is one of the most notable buildings in Puerto Rico, and is considered by some to be “by far the island’s most recognizable landmark”. [1] It is located in the city’s Plaza Las Delicias, right behind Ponce Cathedral. Originally built in 1882 as an exhibition pavilion, it became Puerto Rico’s first fire station.
nine0006 [2] In 1990, the fire station was closed and turned into a museum. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. July 12, 1984 [3]
The building was built as the main exhibition pavilion for the 1882 Exposition Fair. [4] The central government located in Madrid commissioned its design and construction to an officer of the Spanish army, Lieutenant Colonel Maximo de Meana y Guridi [5] [6] , who was also a trained architect and later served as mayor of the city . nine0006 [7]
The building was presented at the fair. [8] After the end of the fair, the pavilion became a fire station. The first firefighters to work in the building were posted on February 2, 1883. [9] In 1885 its official name was changed to Estación de Bomberos de Ponce (Ponce Fire Station).
In 1920, the building was briefly used as City Hall as a result of the 1918 San Fermin earthquake, which affected the city that same year./i.s3.glbimg.com/v1/AUTH_59edd422c0c84a879bd37670ae4f538a/internal_photos/bs/2017/w/r/cM3z1sTVCVH4kA0bTCQA/parque-municipal-chiquinho-verissimo-ney-sarmento.jpg)
nine0006 [7]
In 1967, due to the distinctive appearance and central location of this firehouse, the Ponce Municipal Flag was designed using the red and black colors of its iconic firehouse as primary colors. [10] The Fireman’s Band originally played weekly concerts on the second floor outdoor stage adjacent to the Parque de Bombas. [11] Now known as the Ponce Municipal Band, the band continues to play every Sunday night, albeit at different locations. 12 May 1960, a new fire station was built nearby at the intersection of Calle Mayor and Calle Cristina. [12] [13] This new structure became the main fire station for the city, reducing the Parque de Bombas to a minor role.
Since 1885, the Parc de Bombas has been and remains an important cultural institution in Ponce. Its colors represent the city, its unique style represents a progressive and dynamic cultural center. The Gang Municipal de Ponce (formerly the Group of Firefighters), originally played weekly concerts on the second floor outdoor stage adjacent to the Parc de Bombas, [11] now continues to play every Sunday evening.
Named “Reretas”, they are part of the cultural program and tradition of the city of Ponce. The extremely unusual format of the structure represents the brave firefighters of Ponce and its history. [7] A sign in the Parc de Bombas reads: “ This building is a symbol and commemoration of the importance the people of Ponce place on the service, dedication and courage of the Ponce Fire Corps. It is for this reason that the Ponce Fire Corps symbolically remains in this square, in the heart of the city of Ponce. nine0031 [ 14] In 1943, the Puerto Rico Fire Department was established by law. Its primary responsibility is firefighting, fire prevention, disaster or emergency rescue services, and community service. [7]
Parc de Bomba in August 1977.
Fire station front view
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If you select a non-refundable rate, you will not be able to receive a refund if your booking is cancelled. Your cancellation request will be processed by the hotel in accordance with your rate conditions and consumer protection laws. If in doubt, we recommend booking a free cancellation option. If your plans change, you can cancel your booking without penalty during the free cancellation period. nine0014
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Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino
From 112 US$
Calle Reina Esquina Mendez Vigo & Union, Ponce, Puerto Rico (The hotel is on the map)
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122 Villa St, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
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Street No 2 KM 228.9, Ponce, Puerto Rico (hotel on the map)
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From 216 US$Caribe Hotel Ponce
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103 Turpo Industrial Park, Ponce, Puerto Rico is located 13 km4 from the city Center 900 This hotel is located near several noted attractions.
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6963 of Delights. Nearby attractions include the Park…
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2305 Calle Tabonuco Apt 4, Urb Los Caobos, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
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From 106 US$Cozy Apartment In The Heart Of The City
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El Retiro 4027 Calle Aurora, Apt 511. Ponce Pr, 00716 Fist Floor, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)The accommodation lies not so far away from the cross – shaped Cruceta Del Vigia Monument. It takes 5…
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From 137 US$Beautiful 2Br Apartment With Jacuzzi And Parking
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2305 Calle Tabonuco Apt 3, Urb Los Caobos, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
Major Ponce attractions, such as Rosaly-Batiz House and Los Caobos, are located nearby.
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From 93 US$2Br Apt With Balcony & Free Parking. Pet Friendly
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2305 Calle Tabonuco Apt 1 Urb Los Caobos, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
Ponce city center is 4 km away, while Museo Castillo Serralles is 3.
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From 102 US$Cozy Apartment With Pkg And Laundry. Pet Friendly
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2305 Calle Tabonuco Apt 2 Urb Los Caobos, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
Cruceta del Vigia is 4 km away and Casino de Ponce is 3 km away. This apartment is located close to…
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From 79 US $King Bed, Cozy One-Bedroom Apartment/ Private Deck
91 Calle AtoCha, Ponce, Puerto-RICO
9000 Caribe House
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Calle Perseo, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
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From 122 US $Gladiolas 2203
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121 Calle Villa, Ponce, Puerto Rico (hotel on the map)
Walk and study the city by starting the city with the castor-sir which is a 15 minute walk.
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From 125 US $Lovely Apartment with Laundry & Parking
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2305 Calle Tabonuco APT 7, URB Los CAOBOS, PRUBOS, PRUBOS, PRURTO-RABOS Letras de Ponce is 3.3 km away and Paseo Tablado La Guancha can be reached by car…
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From 89 US$Remodeled Apt With Patio And Laundry. Pet Friendly
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2305 Calle Tabonuco Apt 5, Urb Los Caobos, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center 3 km and Parque 2. de la Ceiba km. The city center is…
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From 89 US$The Caribbean Condo⎪Balcony View⎪Free Wifi & Ac
From 52 US$
1357 Calle Salud Ste 303 D Apt 103 on the map )
The Puerto Rico Museum of Music is a 5-minute walk away.
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El Retiro 4027 Calle Aurora, Apt 511. Ponce Pr, 00716 Fist Floor, Ponce, Puerto Rico (To the map)
9 km away. Mercado de las Carnes…
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