07/17/2022
he María de la Cruz Cave was declared a historical monument in Loíza, Puerto Rico on February 18th, 1972. In 1950, a renowned archaeologist, Ricardo Alegría, discovered that the cave was rich in archaeological artifacts. Today, the cave is recognized as the site of the first human remains of the island's natives, known as Taínos, and some objects of the archaic period. Artefacts indicate that the cave was home to many Taínos. As a result of the discoveries, the Mayor of Loíza, Julia M. Nazario, opened a historical park so that all visitors might learn about the importnace of María de la Cruz Cave in the history of Puerto Rico.