  In this work we review the role of hyperons on the properties of neutron and
proto-neutron stars. In particular, we revise the so-called "hyperon puzzle",
go over some of the solutions proposed to tackle it, and discuss the
implications that the recent measurements of unusually high neutron star masses
have on our present knowledge of hypernuclear physics. We reexamine also the
role of hyperons on the cooling properties of newly born neutron stars and on
the so-called r-mode instability.
