The company was created during Governor Luis A. Ferré's administration (1969-1973) to coordinate the marketing and growth of Puerto Rico's tourism sector.

[1][2] Over the years, it has taken over several tourism-related government functions, such as the regulation and supervision of hotel casinos and of taxis.

While the Puerto Rican version features country inns usually located in rural areas, the program borrows from the state-run enterprise of paradors of Spain.

There the properties are generally converted historic buildings, such as monasteries, convents, forts, etc.

In addition to PRTC offices, La Princesa houses an art gallery named after former PRTC Executive Director Miguel Domenech; it features the agency's art collection as well as other exhibits.