Agüeybaná El Bravo (statue) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Agüeybaná El Bravo |
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| Artist | Unknown |
| Year | 2008 |
| Type | Stone on stone pedestal |
| Condition | Pristine |
| Location | Parque Agüeybaná El Bravo Ponce, Puerto Rico |
| 17°59′44.8434″N 66°36′51.2634″W / 17.995789833°N 66.614239833°W | |
| Owner | Municipality of Ponce, PR |
The Agüeybaná El Bravo statue is a stone sculpture. It honors Agüeybaná II, who was the last main leader, or cacique, of the Taíno people in Puerto Rico. The statue celebrates his bravery in fighting the Spanish in the 1500s. You can find it at Plaza Agüeybaná El Bravo in Barrio Playa, a part of Ponce, Puerto Rico.
Who Was Agüeybaná El Bravo?
Agüeybaná El Bravo means "Agüeybaná The Brave" in English. He was also known as Agüeybaná II. He was born around 1470 and died in 1511. He was one of the two most powerful caciques (leaders) of the Taíno people. The Taíno lived in "Borikén" (the original name for Puerto Rico).
The Spaniards first arrived in Puerto Rico on November 19, 1493. Agüeybaná II led the Taíno people in a big fight. This was the Battle of Yagüecas, also called the "Taíno rebellion of 1511". They fought against Juan Ponce de León and the Spanish Conquistadors (explorers and conquerors). This was the last major Taíno rebellion against the Spanish. Agüeybaná II was killed during this battle.
Every November, on the day some people celebrate Columbus Day, supporters of Agüeybaná gather near the statue. They honor Agüeybaná and Taíno traditions. They share Taíno songs, music, dances, and food. They also give presentations about Taíno culture.
Where Is the Statue Located?
The statue is in Barrio Playa, a neighborhood in Ponce, Puerto Rico. It's located in a small park that is also named after Agüeybaná. Some historians believe the statue stands where the great cacique Agüeybaná once lived.
The statue was put in place when Francisco Zayas Seijo was the mayor of Ponce. It was made in Mexico. Former Ponce Mayor Rafael Cordero Santiago ordered the statue to be created. However, it was not officially shown to the public until October 2008.
