El Museo Castillo Serrallés is a magnificent mansion that symbolizes the prosperity of Puerto Rico’s rum-distilling industry. Established in the 1930s as the home of one of Ponce’s wealthy magnates, the Castillo Serrallés overlooks the entire city from the El Vigía hilltop. Peruse the exhibits housed within the sumptuous villa and learn about the sugar boom that fueled the immense success of rum distilleries such as Juan Serrallés’ Don Q Rum. Stroll around the symmetrical gardens and appreciate the timeless elegance of the terraces and courtyards.
Enter the museum and begin your exploration of its four floors. On the ground floor, you’ll find exhibits dedicated to the rum and sugar industries. Learn the story of the powerful Serrallés family and the impact that the sugar boom had on the Puerto Rican economy. An auditorium on this floor hosts special programs and events.
Make your way upstairs to reach Serrallés’ former library and a beautiful internal courtyard. This level contains the mansion’s living room, dining room and kitchen, which have been faithfully restored to their 1930s splendor. Admire the sumptuous period furnishings and decorations and examine the displays that demonstrate the developments in the rum and sugar businesses. Continue to the outdoor patio to see galleries showcasing local artists and photographers.
On the third level, you can explore the former occupants’ bedrooms. Check out the intimately recreated rooms, which feature family members’ personal furnishings. The terrace level on the fourth floor presents a spectacular view across the city.
Be sure to save some time for exploring the landscaped gardens. Ornate fountains adorn the terraces and manicured plantings continue the Spanish Revival theme. Browse the gift shop to pick up local souvenirs and rum-themed collectibles.
El Museo Castillo Serrallés is located on El Vigía Hill above the city center of Ponce. The museum and mansion rooms are only accessible on a group tour, which may only be available in Spanish. There is an admission fee to enter the museum. It is open Thursday to Sunday until late in the afternoon.
