Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos
Location: Central Cuba
Year of Inscription: 2005
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history;
Overview: The Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos is located on the southern coast of Central Cuba and features a unique blend of architectural styles, including neoclassical, art deco, and colonial. The city was founded in 1819 by French settlers and is recognized for its exceptional urban planning and architectural heritage.
Prominent Features: The Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos is characterized by its unique blend of architectural styles and exceptional urban planning. Some of the most notable features include:
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: A neoclassical cathedral built in the 19th century.
The Thomas Terry Theater: An art deco theater built in the early 20th century.
The Palacio de Valle: A lavish Moorish-style mansion built in the early 1900s by a wealthy sugar merchant.
The Paseo del Prado: A wide avenue lined with palm trees and colonial-era buildings.
History: Cienfuegos was founded in 1819 by French settlers who migrated from Louisiana and Haiti. The city quickly became an important center for trade and commerce, and its unique blend of French and Spanish influences is reflected in its architecture and urban planning.
Fun Fact: Cienfuegos is known as the "Pearl of the South" due to its stunning natural beauty and exceptional architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the city's historic buildings and streets, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and visit the city's museums, including the Provincial Museum of Cienfuegos and the Naval Museum.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to explore the Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos, but some museums and historic sites may charge a small admission fee.
How to Reach It: Cienfuegos is located on the southern coast of Cuba and is accessible by car, bus, or train from other major cities. There are also regular flights from Havana and other cities to the city's airport.
From Havana, you can take a Viazul bus or a shared taxi (known as a "colectivo") to Cienfuegos. The Viazul bus is a comfortable and affordable option, with several departures per day. The journey takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.
If you prefer to take a colectivo, you can find them at various points around Havana. They are shared taxis that usually depart when they have enough passengers. This option can be faster than the bus, but it may also be more expensive.
Once you arrive in Cienfuegos, you can explore the city's historic center on foot or by bicycle taxi. There are also taxis available for hire if you prefer.
Where to Stay: There are a variety of accommodation options in Cienfuegos, including hotels, guesthouses, and private rentals.
Next Stop: Trinidad and the Valley de los Ingenios
Year of Inscription: 2005
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history;
Overview: The Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos is located on the southern coast of Central Cuba and features a unique blend of architectural styles, including neoclassical, art deco, and colonial. The city was founded in 1819 by French settlers and is recognized for its exceptional urban planning and architectural heritage.
Prominent Features: The Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos is characterized by its unique blend of architectural styles and exceptional urban planning. Some of the most notable features include:
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: A neoclassical cathedral built in the 19th century.
The Thomas Terry Theater: An art deco theater built in the early 20th century.
The Palacio de Valle: A lavish Moorish-style mansion built in the early 1900s by a wealthy sugar merchant.
The Paseo del Prado: A wide avenue lined with palm trees and colonial-era buildings.
History: Cienfuegos was founded in 1819 by French settlers who migrated from Louisiana and Haiti. The city quickly became an important center for trade and commerce, and its unique blend of French and Spanish influences is reflected in its architecture and urban planning.
Fun Fact: Cienfuegos is known as the "Pearl of the South" due to its stunning natural beauty and exceptional architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the city's historic buildings and streets, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and visit the city's museums, including the Provincial Museum of Cienfuegos and the Naval Museum.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to explore the Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos, but some museums and historic sites may charge a small admission fee.
How to Reach It: Cienfuegos is located on the southern coast of Cuba and is accessible by car, bus, or train from other major cities. There are also regular flights from Havana and other cities to the city's airport.
From Havana, you can take a Viazul bus or a shared taxi (known as a "colectivo") to Cienfuegos. The Viazul bus is a comfortable and affordable option, with several departures per day. The journey takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.
If you prefer to take a colectivo, you can find them at various points around Havana. They are shared taxis that usually depart when they have enough passengers. This option can be faster than the bus, but it may also be more expensive.
Once you arrive in Cienfuegos, you can explore the city's historic center on foot or by bicycle taxi. There are also taxis available for hire if you prefer.
Where to Stay: There are a variety of accommodation options in Cienfuegos, including hotels, guesthouses, and private rentals.
Next Stop: Trinidad and the Valley de los Ingenios