San Pedro de la Roca Castle, Santiago de Cuba
Location: South East Cuba
Year of Inscription: 1997
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: San Pedro de la Roca Castle, also known as El Morro, is a historic fortification located on a rocky promontory overlooking Santiago de Cuba Bay. It was built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirate attacks and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish-American military architecture.
Prominent Features: San Pedro de la Roca Castle is a massive stone fortress that includes a number of impressive features, including:
History: San Pedro de la Roca Castle was built in the 17th century as part of a network of fortifications designed to protect Santiago de Cuba from pirate attacks. The castle was attacked several times over the centuries, including a famous assault by the British in 1662. Today, San Pedro de la Roca Castle is a popular tourist destination and is considered one of the most important examples of military architecture in the Caribbean.
Fun Fact: The castle is considered to be one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish-American military architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the castle and its many historic features, including the watchtower and the main fort. There are also a number of interactive exhibits and displays that help bring the castle's history to life. Kids will love exploring the castle's many nooks and crannies and imagining what life was like for the soldiers who once lived and worked there.
Entry Fees: 8 CUC per person for foreign visitors
How to Reach It: San Pedro de la Roca Castle is located just outside of Santiago de Cuba and is easily accessible by car or taxi.
The most common way to reach Santiago de Cuba from Havana is by domestic flight, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The nearest airport to the castle is the Antonio Maceo International Airport in Santiago de Cuba, which is about a 20-minute drive away.
You can also take a long-distance bus from Havana to Santiago de Cuba, which takes approximately 14 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route, including Viazul and Astro.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located in Santiago de Cuba, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Some of the most popular options include Casa Granda, Hotel Melia Santiago, and Hotel Casagranda.
Next Stop: Alejandro de Humboldt National Park
Year of Inscription: 1997
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: San Pedro de la Roca Castle, also known as El Morro, is a historic fortification located on a rocky promontory overlooking Santiago de Cuba Bay. It was built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirate attacks and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish-American military architecture.
Prominent Features: San Pedro de la Roca Castle is a massive stone fortress that includes a number of impressive features, including:
- The main fort, which features a number of interior spaces, including a chapel, a gunpowder room, and living quarters for the garrison.
- The watchtower, which offers stunning views of Santiago de Cuba Bay and the surrounding landscape.
- The outer fortifications, which include a series of walls and defensive structures designed to protect the fort from land-based attacks.
History: San Pedro de la Roca Castle was built in the 17th century as part of a network of fortifications designed to protect Santiago de Cuba from pirate attacks. The castle was attacked several times over the centuries, including a famous assault by the British in 1662. Today, San Pedro de la Roca Castle is a popular tourist destination and is considered one of the most important examples of military architecture in the Caribbean.
Fun Fact: The castle is considered to be one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish-American military architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the castle and its many historic features, including the watchtower and the main fort. There are also a number of interactive exhibits and displays that help bring the castle's history to life. Kids will love exploring the castle's many nooks and crannies and imagining what life was like for the soldiers who once lived and worked there.
Entry Fees: 8 CUC per person for foreign visitors
How to Reach It: San Pedro de la Roca Castle is located just outside of Santiago de Cuba and is easily accessible by car or taxi.
The most common way to reach Santiago de Cuba from Havana is by domestic flight, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The nearest airport to the castle is the Antonio Maceo International Airport in Santiago de Cuba, which is about a 20-minute drive away.
You can also take a long-distance bus from Havana to Santiago de Cuba, which takes approximately 14 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route, including Viazul and Astro.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located in Santiago de Cuba, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Some of the most popular options include Casa Granda, Hotel Melia Santiago, and Hotel Casagranda.
Next Stop: Alejandro de Humboldt National Park