Santiago de Cuba, Colonial city in southeastern Cuba.
Santiago de Cuba is a large city in the province of the same name in southeastern Cuba, spreading through a valley of the Sierra Maestra and bordered by a Caribbean bay. The fortress El Morro guards the bay entrance, while the center with colonial buildings and narrow streets spreads over gentle hills.
The Spanish colonial capital from 1522 to 1589 served as a departure point for expeditions to Mexico and Florida in the early 16th century. Later it became an important harbor for trade and played a central role in several independence struggles against colonial rule.
The place is known as the birthplace of son music, which later evolved into salsa, and shows strong African roots in its traditions and celebrations. This musical character remains present in the streets and local events, where rhythms and dances shape everyday life.
The University of Oriente, founded in 1947, offers higher education programs together with several research centers and medical training facilities. Many streets in the center are steep and the tropical climate brings high temperatures and humidity throughout the year.
The National Sanctuary of the Virgin of Charity at El Cobre holds the first cathedral of Cuba from 1528 and the patroness of the country. Visitors can reach the pilgrimage site in the nearby mountains, where believers leave votive offerings and messages of gratitude.
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