Historic Centre of Camagüey
Location: Central Cuba
Year of Inscription: 2008
Criteria: (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history;
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Historic Centre of Camagüey is located in the central region of Cuba and is known for its maze-like streets, historic plazas, and colonial architecture. The city was founded in the early 16th century and served as an important commercial center during the colonial period. The historic center of Camagüey is recognized for its unique urban layout, which includes a series of narrow, winding streets and small plazas.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of the Historic Centre of Camagüey include:
History: Camagüey was founded in 1514 as a Spanish colonial settlement and quickly became an important commercial center due to its location between the ports of Havana and Santiago de Cuba. The city was also an important center of revolutionary activity during the Cuban War of Independence.
Fun Fact: The streets of the Historic Centre of Camagüey were intentionally designed to be confusing to invaders, with narrow, winding streets and a lack of large plazas.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the historic streets and plazas of the city, visit the Casa Natal del Mayor Ignacio Agramonte museum, and learn about the city's history and culture.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to explore the Historic Centre of Camagüey, but some of the museums and cultural sites may have individual admission fees.
How to Reach it: From Havana, you can take a Viazul bus or hire a private taxi. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours. There are several departures per day, but it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
From Trinidad, you can also take a Viazul bus or hire a private taxi. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, and there are several departures per day.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in Camagüey, including hotels, guesthouses, and rental apartments. Some popular hotels in the historic center include the Gran Hotel Camagüey and Hotel Colón. For those looking for a more authentic experience, there are many casas particulares (private homes) available for rent. These can be found through various booking websites or by asking locals for recommendations. Some popular options include Casa Luz and Casa Las Leyendas.
Next Stop: Desembarco del Granma National Park
Year of Inscription: 2008
Criteria: (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history;
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Historic Centre of Camagüey is located in the central region of Cuba and is known for its maze-like streets, historic plazas, and colonial architecture. The city was founded in the early 16th century and served as an important commercial center during the colonial period. The historic center of Camagüey is recognized for its unique urban layout, which includes a series of narrow, winding streets and small plazas.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of the Historic Centre of Camagüey include:
- Plaza del Carmen: A historic square located in the heart of the city, which is home to the Carmen Church and the Casa Natal del Mayor Ignacio Agramonte, a museum dedicated to a Cuban revolutionary leader.
- Plaza de los Trabajadores: A large public square located on the outskirts of the city, which is home to a number of important government buildings.
- Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad: A historic church located in the heart of the city, which features an ornate Baroque facade.
History: Camagüey was founded in 1514 as a Spanish colonial settlement and quickly became an important commercial center due to its location between the ports of Havana and Santiago de Cuba. The city was also an important center of revolutionary activity during the Cuban War of Independence.
Fun Fact: The streets of the Historic Centre of Camagüey were intentionally designed to be confusing to invaders, with narrow, winding streets and a lack of large plazas.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the historic streets and plazas of the city, visit the Casa Natal del Mayor Ignacio Agramonte museum, and learn about the city's history and culture.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to explore the Historic Centre of Camagüey, but some of the museums and cultural sites may have individual admission fees.
How to Reach it: From Havana, you can take a Viazul bus or hire a private taxi. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours. There are several departures per day, but it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
From Trinidad, you can also take a Viazul bus or hire a private taxi. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, and there are several departures per day.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in Camagüey, including hotels, guesthouses, and rental apartments. Some popular hotels in the historic center include the Gran Hotel Camagüey and Hotel Colón. For those looking for a more authentic experience, there are many casas particulares (private homes) available for rent. These can be found through various booking websites or by asking locals for recommendations. Some popular options include Casa Luz and Casa Las Leyendas.
Next Stop: Desembarco del Granma National Park