Loiza, known as the capital of tradition of Puerto Rico, is home to vejigante masks made from coconuts, bomba music, and authentic afro-carribean cuisine. Loiza is named after the Taino cacique, meaning chief, Luisa. The Spanish brought slaves from the Yoruba tribe to the town of Loiza, which explains why residents of the city have deep-rooted African heritage and influences many generations later. Loiza is located just past Isla Verde and Condado, making it a popular destination amongst locals and tourists. Parque Histórico Cueva María De La Cruz Our first stop will be at the captivating Parque Histórico Cueva Maria De La Cruz. This cave is a remnant of the pre-columbian days of the Arawak indigenous people. You will learn about indigenous cultures, including the cacique, Luisa, who the city is named after. Ceiba trees surround the cave, which was a sacred tree to Tainos that is protected by the government today. The tour guide will take you inside of the cave and tell the story about the creation of Puerto Rico as an island in the Caribbean sea. Witness millions of years of geological formation with a visit to this cave. Samuel Lind Art Gallery Samuel Lind is a well-renowned artist born and raised in Loiza. He welcomes visitors to his art studio which doubles as his home. His artwork depicts every aspect of Loiceño and Taino culture and how they are intertwined. Visitors have the opportunity to speak with Samuel Lind himself and immerse themselves in the life he depicts through his paintings and sculptures that have been placed in exhibitions worldwide. Vejigante Masks The vejigante is a brightly-colored character part of the Loiceño folklore used during festivals. One key aspect of the vejigante is the mask that it wears. There are two different styles of masks: made from coconuts or from paper mache. Loiza is the only place in the world that uses coconuts to make the vejigante masks. Visitors will receive a lively presentation from Pedro La Viera, the official spokesperson for the Vejigante masks of Puerto Rico. He will explain the process of turning a coconut into a vibrant vejigante mask. You will learn how the masks are created, their unique uses, and why they are important to Loiceño culture. Bomba Dance Lesson Bomba is a traditional fast-paced rhythmic music and dance style created by African slaves in Puerto Rico over 400 years ago. This music and dance style originated in Loiza and was used as a form of communication between slaves. It is celebrated as a form of self and community expression today. The bomba dancer moves as she wishes, and the drummers follow her lead. Visitors will learn the rhythms of bomba and appreciate the freedom of the dance style.