Originally excavated by the famous archaeologist J A Mason in 1915, the park has been restored and established under the auspices of the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture. Much of its land, which includes dry scrub and mangrove swamps, has been designated as a National Wildlife Refuge. Today, Culebra largely remains a neglected and forgotten backwater, which is what gives it its appeal. The only rainforest national forest in the territorial US, El Yunque is well worth a visit for anyone who has ever dreamed of visiting a rainforest. Hacienda Buena Vista was founded in 1833 by Spaniard Salvador de Vives.
Tours are available.
The name itself derives from pargos, a type of snapper. This area contains what is probably the most famous marine attraction in Puerto Rico. Any disruption or disturbance causes them to light up the surrounding water. The sole remaining center of Afro-Hispanic culture on the island. It has a small zoo and agricultural research station.