The Castle at the Top
Discover the enchanting beauty of Castillo Mario Mercado.
Reserve Your Event at this Historic Landmark Today!
The Historic Mario Mercado Castle in Guayanilla, is one of the most emblematic architectural works of Puerto Rico and the Southern region of the country. The residence of Don Mario Mercado, designed by Francisco Porrata-Doria, is located on top of a hill from where all of his lands could be seen. The mansion has several terraces with an impressive view of the Caribbean Sea and the Central Mountain Range and its presence is impressive from the valley and for those who pass through Highway 2.
The Castle at the Top
The wealthy landowner Don Mario Mercado Montalvo was born in Ponce in 1855. His extraordinary business skills led him to establish the Central Rufina in Guayanilla in 1901, together with Don José Trujillo Pizá. In 1916, Don Mario Mercado bought the shares of his partner and the sugar mill was managed by the Mario Mercado e Hijos company.
The Rufina Power Plant became one of the most important in the area and was the driving force behind the economic development of Guayanilla during the first decades of the 20th century.
The Castle sits on a hill overlooking the adjoining town and nearby sea. The spectacular siting, all alone on lots that know no end, reinforces the sculptural quality of these structures, highly articulated in both plan and elevation.
Built in 1935
The Castle’s History
The Mario Mercado Castle, as it is popularly known, stands out for its own design of the work of Porrata-Doria. The uneven levels and the organization of the spaces around an axis, as well as its tower and the abundance of arches and tiles, relate it to Moorish taste, while it presents decorative elements linked to Art Deco.
During World War II, the castle was painted in shades of green and brown with a camouflage pattern in fear of a German invasion through Guayanilla Bay. In addition, a tunnel was built from the residence to the foot of the mountain to facilitate escape in the event of an enemy attack.
This Castle is representative of one of the Spanish Revival’s most significant residential endeavors, that of the villa on the outskirts of town, which underlined the period’s dual concern with buildings as objects and a mature handling of traditional space.
Elevate Every Moment
Unforgettable Experiences
Celebrate your luxury weddings, social, and corporate events at Puerto Rico’s most exclusive hilltop retreat. Castillo Mario Mercado offers a stunning backdrop and unparalleled elegance for your special occasions. Contact us now at 1-787-401-5443 to book your unforgettable experience.
Weddings, Social & Corporate Events
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Our fixed fees include the Castle Rental and Event Security. These are minimum requirements for renting the castle grounds.
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Step into the realm of enchantment with Castle Mario Mercado’s majestic architecture that stands as the perfect backdrop for your most cherished moments.
Available for rent at a fixed fee of $3,000 per day, from 9:00am to 2:00am, this castle offers an unparalleled setting for your special event or wedding.
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Ensure the safety and tranquility of your special occasion with our top-notch Event Security services, offered at a fixed fee of $12.00/hr for your peace of mind. Our experienced and professional security team is dedicated to creating a secure environment for your event, allowing you and your guests to focus on enjoying the moment.
Choose Your Perfect Event
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Castle View Courtyard
Perched on a hill in Guayanilla, our castle offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Caribbean. As the sun sets over the horizon, the gardens transform into a magical space, illuminated by the warm glow of twilight—a perfect setting for creating memories that last a lifetime.
Capacity: Up to 232 Guests
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Timeless Treasures Terrace
Step into a world of natural beauty where lush greenery meets the charm of historic architecture. Our expansive Open Garden Lawn, spread before the Mario Mercado Castle, is the ideal canvas for your dream event. Be it a fairy-tale wedding, a serene celebration, or a jubilant gathering, our gardens offer a blank canvas for your imagination.
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The Enchanting Terrace
Exchange vows under the clear Puerto Rican sky, with the castle as a majestic witness. The open lawn provides a seamless transition from outdoor ceremonies to al fresco receptions, creating an atmosphere that resonates with romance and sophistication.
Capacity: Up to 88 Guests
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The Royal Oasis
Our poolside location offers a perfect blend of sophistication and relaxation for your events. Whether you're planning a corporate gathering, or a romantic celebration, this area provides a serene ambiance with the shimmering pool as the centerpiece.
Capacity: Up to 52 Guests
Additional Services
These services could be added to any of our existing packages for an additional cost.
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-Set-Up and Breakdown
-Decor and Styling
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-Menu Planning
-Food and Beverage Service
-Catering Staff
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-Live Bands or DJs
-Performers
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-Sound System Setup
-Light Design
-Projection and Screens
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-Professional Photographers
-Videographers
-Photo and Video Editing
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-Uniformed Security Personnel
-Crowd Control
-Access Management
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-Event-specific Floral Design
-Centerpieces and bouquets
-Flower Installations
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-Furniture Rental
-Linens and Tableware
-Tent and Canopy Rental
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Servers and Bartenders
-Cleaning and Maintenance Staff
