A Truly Spirited City
Perched on the Caribbean Sea southeast of the capital of Havana is Santiago de Cuba. The soul of Cuba’s second largest city is bustling, diverse and bursting at the seams with fascinating history and cultural life.
The launching pad of Castro’s revolution, home of Don Facundo Bacardí’s first rum factory, and birthplace of myriad forms of Cuban music, Santiago de Cuba is an eclectic mix of influences with a distinct Caribbean spirit and Afro-Cuban culture.
Enjoy breathtaking views from Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca del Morro, a legendary 16th-century fort known as “El Morro”, or visit Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt in the Nipe-Sagua-Baracoa Mountains, declared by UNESCO as “one of the most biologically diverse tropical island sites on earth.” Stroll around and take it all in: the rich colonial heritage and sights like the imposing but beautiful Basilica de la Caridad del Cobre. The nights are lively and the days are hot in this intriguing city. Whatever your pace, the streets of this vibrant city definitely have a pulse of their own.
Featured Voyages
- Departing: March 09, 2018
- Starting at: €5 159 EUR
- Port Fees: €264
- Departing: March 19, 2018
- Starting at: €2 538 EUR
- Port Fees: €221
Cementerio Santa Ifigenia
Cementerio Santa Ifigenia
One of the most historically significant cemeteries in Cuba, its hallowed grounds are home to the victims of the War of Independence and yellow-fever outbreak, as well as the final resting place of two of the country’s most notable figures, Fidel Castro and José Martí. Visit Martí’s grandiose hexagonal mausoleum or search out the humble grave of Cuba’s most infamous leader.
Cuartel Moncada
Cuartel Moncada
Inside this bright, marigold-colored building emerged some of Cuba’s most historical moments. Originally used as military barracks named after General Guillermon Moncada, this site became the setting of a revolutionary uprising led by a Fidel Castro that started the Cuban Revolution. The scene of a failed and bloody putsch, today the barracks feature a museum that details the gruesome events of July 26, 1953.
Museo Municipal Emilio Bacardí Moreau
Museo Municipal Emilio Bacardí Moreau
Known for more than just rum, Santiago’s former mayor, Emilio Bacardí y Moreau, commissioned the building of Cuba’s first and grandest museum. With its beautiful Greco-Roman design, the Bacardí Museum houses artifacts recovered from the Spanish Conquest and Wars of Independence, as well as a substantial collection of Cuban and European paintings. Peruse Cuba’s history from slavery to revolution and be sure to check out an archeological display featuring an Egyptian mummy.
Santiago de Cuba, Cuba At a glance
