| Cienfuegos |
The legendary Benny Moré, one of the most famous Cuban musicians and native of the Cienfuegos province, once sang that Cienfuegas was La ciudad que más me gusta a mí (the city I like the best). Nowadays these words welcome you when reaching the Bahía de Cienfuegos.
Cienfuegos is a charming waterfront city arranged around Cuba´s most spectacular natural bay, with a certain French elegance and a Caribbean feel to it. The Perla del Sur (Pearl of the South) as Cienfuegos is called, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the homogeneous and noteworthy French architecture. Since the 19th century it’s layout has been elegant and has represented ideas of modernism, hygiene and order in its urban planning.
Its buildings influenced by the French enclave which at the beginning of the 19th century started developing this settlement are of architectural and cultural value, distinct because of its elegance and notable art-deco elements as can be seen in the Teatro Tomás Terry and Palacio de Ferrer.
Another aspect that gives Cienfuegos a French touch is the Arco de Triunfo, the only ‘Arc de Triomphe’ in Cuba. The Cuban arch is located in the Parque José Martí and is dedicated to its country´s independence. Another building that defines Cienfuegos is the Castillo de Jagua, an imposing fortress built to protect Cienfuegos from menacing pirates. It is known as one of Cuba’s most important military structures, but also known for its ‘Lady in Blue, a ghost in a blue brocade dress, haunting the castle even in present days.
As experienced Cuba-travellers we are fascinated by each and every one of the island’s locations, but we would say that Cienfuegos is a must for all travelers. Lovers of colonial architecture only have to read the info on Cienfuegos enough to realise its wealth in this aspect. But Cienfuegos is worth a visit also for its people, nature, sports and of course for its nightlife; you will find places to drink and dance every day.
If you decide to look for accommodation in a rental house don’t just stay for one day, Cienfuegos has enough to offer for a longer stay. Ask us in www.househostelcuba.com |
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