Cuba is a Caribbean country located to the east of Mexico. This country boasts both bustling cities like Havana and tropical beaches like Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo. Some of Cuba's famous landmarks are historical, cultural and natural.
Finca Vigia, Havana
One of the famous Cuban landmarks that you must see in Havana is Finca Viga. This landmark in the San Francisco de Paula area was the former home of Ernest Hemingway. As with his Key West home, the house now functions as a museum. If you are interested in visiting the famous writer's home, you can take a tour of the house, which looks like it was when Hemingway lived here. You will also learn more about his life and the works he wrote at Finca Viga.
Havana Cathedral, Havana
It is one of the eleven cathedrals in Cuba. This attraction is located in Old Havana and was built in the mid to late 1700s. A particularly interesting fact about this place is that the remains of Columbus were kept here until 1898. Havana Cathedral is a stunning example of Baroque architecture with a breathtaking interior and exterior. While in the Cuban capital, it is highly recommended to visit this cathedral and appreciate its design.
Museum of the Revolution, Havana
This is a fascinating museum with exhibits dedicated to the Cuban Revolution. It houses a number of artifacts, including propaganda posters, weapons, military aircraft, and even bullet-riddled uniforms. Despite the fact that the museum was opened in 1974, the attraction is located in the former Presidential Palace. The palace itself is a landmark and was built in 1920.
Hotel National de Cuba, Havana
This eclectic Art Deco hotel is a great place to relax and dine. The building is located in Havana and was opened in 1930. While in Cuba, you have the opportunity to book luxury accommodations at this fine four-star hotel. Alternatively, you can stop at one of the many bars and restaurants inside to relax with a meal or drink while admiring the architecture and views of the coast.
This is a statue of Jesus of Nazareth that was found on a hilltop in Havana. The statue was originally commissioned by sculptor Gilma Madera in 1953. However, it was forgotten for many years before being rediscovered in the 1990s. Today, the statue looks out over Havana Harbor from the top of the hill and can be seen from various places in the city.
Mausoleum and Museum of Che Guevara, Santa Clara
The Mausoleum of Che Guevara is a monument to the Argentine fighter Ernesto "Che" Guevara and his army. The memorial also contains his remains, as well as the remains of 29 of his fighters. All died in 1967 during the battle. There are also several other statues around the mausoleum, as well as plaques explaining the influence of Che Guevara. There is also a small museum that offers more information about the revolutionary fighter.
Casa de Diego Velasquez, Santiago de Cuba
This is one of the oldest historical sites in Cuba. This mansion was built in the early 1500s. It is considered one of the earliest examples of Spanish colonial architecture in Latin America. The mansion was built for Diego Velazquez, the first governor of Cuba. The house is now a museum and includes exhibits on the house itself, Velázquez and Cuba in the 16th century.
This mountain range has a height of almost 1957 meters and runs through the southeast of Cuba. The highlands are the largest of their kind in Cuba. If you love outdoor activities and scenic walks, a trip to Sierra Maestra is not to be missed. This landmark also figures in Cuban history because Fidel Castro led his movement inside the mountain range for almost two years.
El Yunque, Baracoa
This is a limestone mountain 575 meters high, which became a national monument in 1979. There are several hiking trails on the mountain that will take you to the top and give you great views along the way. Although you should be accompanied by a guide on the hike, the trails are not particularly difficult.
This is a wooden cross that was erected in 1492 by Christopher Columbus when he first landed in Cuba. The cross is one of the oldest artifacts associated with Columbus found in the Americas. It is believed that Columbus placed 29 crosses throughout the "New World".
Cascate El Nicho, Cienfuegos
Cascate El Nicho, or El Nicho Falls, is a natural attraction. These waterfalls are hidden in the lush jungle. They can be reached by walking along the footpath. Once at the falls, you can swim in the pools below and spot wildlife, including many tropical birds. If you want to explore the area around the falls, you will discover several additional hidden waterfalls and scenic trails.
Kayo Coco, Jardines del Rey
This is a famous place with white sandy beaches and many resorts. This tropical island also has lagoons and the ocean waters are incredibly clear, making it ideal for diving and snorkelling.
Cueva de los Portales, La Guira National Park
This is another natural attraction of Cuba. This vast cave system is an interesting landmark to explore and is of historical significance. During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, Che Guevara made the caves the headquarters of his army for more than a month.
Ciénaga de Zapata National Park
This park is an important ecological reserve. The park is home to many tropical plants and trees. Of course, you will also find many wild animals here. Animals that call this national park home include parrots, Cuban boas, and the smallest bird in the world, the bee hummingbird.
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