By Cicely A. Richard
Puerto Rico, a self-governing U.S. territory, is located in the
Caribbean and includes a larger main island and numerous smaller islands. Puerto Rican culture, like many cultures in the Caribbean, owes its cultural identity to multiple sources. These diverse cultural influences form a rich, eclectic tapestry that creates qualities that symbolize Puerto Rico.
The People
The multiethnic mix of people affects the eclectic nature of Puerto Rican culture. They represent people who are descendants of Europeans, Africans and Native Americans.
Music
Music symbolizes Puerto Rican culture's diverse ethnic roots. Puerto Rican immigrants in New York created the internationally recognized salsa. On the island of Puerto Rico, musical forms such as bomba have distinct African roots.
Cuisine
The food and drinks of Puerto Rico are similar to Spanish, Cuban and Mexican cuisine, as Puerto Rican cuisine, which they call "cocina criolla," blends native ingredients like papaya and cacao with African and European flair.
Arts
Artworks in Puerto Rican culture, even in places of worship, represent a blend of indigenous cultures that once inhabited the island and Christian conversions that occurred after European settlement. Religious saints sit next to folk legends.
Sports
Sports plays a major role in Puerto Rican culture, and the people of this island enjoy all forms of activities, including baseball, futbol (soccer), American football and outdoor activities like sailing.
Architecture
The architecture of Puerto Rico illustrates its Spanish cultural influence. Its cobblestone streets, multicolored, tile rooftops and ornate balconies are just a few representatives of Andalusia in Southern Spain.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Tucson, Ariz., Cicely A. Richard has been writing since 1996. Her articles have been published in the “Arizona Daily Star” newspaper and “ForeWord Magazine.” Richard earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and journalism from Louisiana State University.
