Did somebody say celebration? In true Stevie Wonder style, we sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to the city of Cienfuegos, nestled on Cuba’s south coast, on 22nd April 2024. Best known for its colonial-era buildings and historical central square Parque José Martí, this World Cultural Heritage Site was founded 205 years ago by Don Luis Lorenzo De Clouet Pietre on 22 April 1819. Formerly, the city was known as Fernandina de Jagua colony.
So, what can you expect from Cienfuegos?
The city began with no more than 46 people, and has steadily grown into the tick-list tourist destination that it is today. And it’s no surprise, given the beauty of the place. If you’re into neoclassical, French architecture, the town’s main square Parque José Martí is the place to head to first. Listed as a National Monument, you’ll find stunning architectural sights here including the Arco de los Obreros (Arch of the Workers), Cienfuegos’ very own Arc de Triomphe – which is easy to spot, since it’s plotted next to a statue of José Martí himself – and famous Tomás Terry Theater (built between 1887-1889 in honour of Venezuelan industrialist Tomás Terry), adorned with gold-leaf mosaics and intricate ceiling frescoes.
One of the best ways to soak up the city’s best bits, however, is to wander its Malecón sea wall (similar to that of Havana’s), which overlooks the oceanfront. In addition to the pleasant sea breeze, you’ll stumble upon popular cafes and restaurants along the way, plus more wonderful architecture – of course.
In honour of the occasion, a special edition of the extra-aged artisanal rum, Conde de Cuba, was dedicated to the founding of the city – handcrafted and aged for more than a decade in barrels, enhancing that nutty and woody flavour. Well, you can’t have a celebration in Cuba without the presence of rum, can you?
Often referred to as The Pearl of the South, there’s a reason Cienfuegos has just celebrated its 205th birthday – but we’ll leave you to find out why…
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