Christopher Columbus spotted the island now known as Puerto Rico during his second voyage to the New World. On November 18, 1493, while navigating the Caribbean, he and his crew saw a lush green island that captured their attention. Columbus initially named the island 'San Juan Bautista' after St. John the Baptist, reflecting the Catholic heritage he carried from Spain. This new land would eventually be central to the Spanish colonization efforts in the region. The voyage was undertaken to explore territories discovered during Columbus's first journey and to establish new trade routes and settlements. Upon arrival, Columbus and his crew were greeted by the native Taíno people, notable for their hospitality despite challenging circumstances amidst a cultural upheaval caused by European contact. The Spaniards noted the island's favorable geography and natural resources, further igniting interest in claiming it for Spain. The encounter initiated a series of events leading to the eventual colonization and transformation of the island’s indigenous culture.