The Raíces (Roots) Fountain was commissioned to commemorate the 500th Anniversary of the discovery of America and also to celebrate Puerto Rican culture. This allegorical fountain has a large grouping of sculptures on a raised pedestal in the center of the basin of a fountain. The basin represents the sea and the pedestal the island of Puerto Rico. Each sculpture represents an aspect of Puerto Rican history, culture, or character.
A bilingual plaque explains, in lyric detail, the meaning of each of the figures and the history and purpose of the fountain.
Raíces
This group of sculptures symbolizes the roots that gave birth to Puerto Rico's cultural heritage.
The island of Puerto Rico sails through the waves like a ship that has at its bow a steed emerging from the sea with a strong a vigorous pace but planted on terra firma, and astride its flanks, a youth who scans the horizon of indelibly beautiful dawns and sunsets.
Astern, two dolphins stylishly cut through the waters in friendship, playful and intelligent with an instinct for kindness and gentleness depicting the Puerto Rican character.
They are joined by a female figure at the island's portal, from which incoming ships can be sighted, and from whence she can greet with garlands and delicacies those who come from distant seas and foreign lands.
To the left, in what could be called the main spot on board, the family, the center of any societal group.
To the right the native "jibaro" deeply rooted in the land with his rhythm and his folklore and the woman, who dances to the beat of the music.
In the middle of the vessel as if it was the main mast an enraged goddess - the central figure - emerges, howling to the tour winds, as itf trying to soar towards the cerulean vault seeking the stars and symbolizing the freedom of the Puerto Rican people.
The fountain was designed by the architect Miguel A. Carlo and built by E.R. del Moral of San Juan, PR, under the administration of the Honorable Rafael Hernandez Colón, Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and during the tenancy of Mr. Miguel A. Domenech as Executive Director of Puerto Rico Tourism Company. The sculptures are the artistic creation and work of Luis Sanguino from Segovia, Spain.
It was begun in November 1991 and finished and unveiled on May 30, 1992 in commemoration of the Fifth Centennial of the Discovery of America and the inauguration of this promenade.