Porta Coeli

About this place

Porta Coeli, Latin for «Heaven's Gate», is a small church above a red brick stairway in the historic district of San Germán, the second oldest city in Puerto Rico. It is among the oldest surviving church buildings on the island and in the Western Hemisphere, and it now serves as a museum of religious art rather than a regular place of worship. Dominican friars built their convent at the crest of the hill in 1609, while the famous church building was first set up as a chapel over a small square in 1692. After earthquakes in 1717 and 1737 the convent was rebuilt, and the church is now all that survives of it. In 1949 it was sold to the Government of Puerto Rico for one dollar for safekeeping, and it joined the U.S. National Register in 1976. The broad stairway climbs from the street to a simple pink and white front with an arched door, with old brick wall remains at its side. Before it stretches the long Plaza Santo Domingo with benches, lamps and trees, surrounded by quiet houses. Inside are a plain timber roof and religious art gathered by the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture. It is about 12 km in a straight line from La Parguera, so both fit one day. It pairs well with a walk in the historic district, which is small and pleasant by day. Check museum hours before you arrive, as they may be limited. Respect the religious displays, and ask before taking pictures inside. Bring a hat and water, as the plaza is sunny and the stairs get hot at noon.