THE ISLAND. THE PEOPLE. THE LEGACY.
The spirit of
Borikén.
Discover a Puerto Rico shaped by the depth of its history and the energy of its living culture.
A NEW WAY TO EXPLORE
One island. Many stories. A living heritage.
Explore Puerto Rico through the history of its Indigenous Taíno peoples, the richness of its cultural traditions, and the places and communities that shape the island today. Tainos connects archaeological knowledge, historical research, island experiences and practical resources in an English and Puerto Rican Spanish cultural guide.
EXPLORE THE COLLECTION
Explore heritage, culture and island life.
Four perspectives on Puerto Rico and Borikén.
THE PAST / THE PRESENT
The Taíno Legacy
History, archaeology, community life, ceremonial traditions and enduring cultural connections.
LIVING CULTURE
Puerto Rico Today
Contemporary communities, customs, music, art and the many expressions of Puerto Rican identity.
PLACES & EXPERIENCES
Explore Borikén
Historic cities, tropical forests, coastlines, mountain towns and culturally significant destinations.
FOOD & IDENTITY
Food & Identity
Ingredients, familiar dishes, traditional cooking and the cultural histories behind Puerto Rican food.
FEATURED PERSPECTIVE
Before colonization, Indigenous communities shaped the Caribbean.
Across Puerto Rico and the Greater Antilles, generations of Indigenous peoples developed settlements, agricultural systems, maritime networks, crafts and ceremonial practices. Their history is understood through archaeological discoveries, historical accounts and the continuing study of Indigenous Caribbean heritage. The legacy also continues through families, cultural knowledge and contemporary discussions of Taíno identity.
Discover Taíno heritageTAÍNO HERITAGE
Understanding life in Borikén.
Homes & Agriculture
Yucayeques, bohíos, conuco gardens, cassava cultivation and food preparation.
02 / ART & CEREMONYArt & Ceremony
Material culture, cemí objects, archaeological evidence and ceremonial settings.
03 / BATÚBatú at the Batey
The traditional ball game, ceremonial courts and the archaeological site of Caguana.
PUERTO RICO TODAY
A culture that continues to evolve.
Puerto Rico is shaped by its people, neighborhoods, music, celebrations, art and everyday life. Its contemporary identity carries Indigenous, African, European and later cultural influences, expressed in countless local and family traditions. Explore Puerto Rican culture
EXPLORE PUERTO RICO
Extraordinary places. Distinctive communities.
Historic San Juan
Landmark fortifications, historic architecture, plazas and the city’s layered cultural history.
02 / NATUREEl Yunque
A tropical national forest known for rich biodiversity and the Luquillo mountain landscape.
03 / ISLAND LIFEMountains & Coasts
Mountain municipalities, coastal towns and destinations beyond the urban centers.
FOOD & TRADITIONS
Every dish carries a story.
Puerto Rican cuisine connects family recipes, regional ingredients and generations of culinary exchange. From yuca and casabe to mofongo, arroz con gandules and pasteles, its traditions reflect the complexity and creativity of island life. Explore Puerto Rican cuisine
THE TAINOS JOURNAL
History, places and people. Carefully told.
Explore research-based articles, contemporary island stories, heritage features and thoughtful accounts of Puerto Rico’s communities and cultural traditions.
Read the JournalUSEFUL ISLAND RESOURCES
Practical knowledge for Puerto Rico.
Find guides covering official records, travel planning, transportation, essential services and cultural institutions, with clear directions to responsible agencies and organizations.
MISSION & RESEARCH STANDARDS
Research, accuracy and cultural respect.
Tainos brings together heritage education, modern Puerto Rican culture and useful island knowledge. Historical interpretations are grounded in identifiable evidence; reconstructions are distinguished from authentic artifacts and photographs. Contemporary culture is represented as a living, diverse reality.
Our mission and standards