Cuba’s third-largest city, Camaguey, is hailed for its style and elegance. It may not be a major player like Havana or Trinidad, but that’s what makes your visit here one of real authenticity. The architecture overwhelms the city’s labyrinth of streets, and the lack of tourist hustle and bustle makes getting lost and discovering the city’s charm and rich colonial past at your own leisure, even more enjoyable.
Camaguey’s History and Art
In 2008, Camaguey’s historic centre was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can explore a maze of cobbled streets and quaint plazas lined with ancient buildings and vibrant street art – not to mention a handful of awe-inspiring churches to admire (which is unsurprising since Camaguey is one of the major strongholds of the Catholic Church on the island). Discover the city’s concealed plazas, fascinating galleries, baroque churches, friendly bars, and restaurants whilst you’re here. Your first stop should be Parque Ignacio Agramonte, the most popular square in Camaguey located in the heart of the city, with marble benches surrounding an impressive equestrian statue of the Cuban revolutionary, Ignacio Agramonte. In fact, locals here are called “agramontinos” by other Cubans in honour of the First War of Independence hero and are respected for their resilience in times of crisis.
One for the Movie Buffs
Consider yourself a film fanatic? Take a stroll down Cinema Street; this aptly named street plays host to no less than five olde-worlde cinemas – many of which opened in the 40s and 50s – where you can catch everything from the latest big-time blockbuster to local Cuban films. Or perhaps you want to swap the big screen for a live ballet performance instead? While salsa is known as the most popular style of dancing in the Caribbean, many don’t know that Cuba also has a strong association with ballet. Head to the Teatro Principal, the main theatre in Camaguey, for an evening of entertainment (it only costs a few dollars) and admire the colourful costumes and the delicate movements of the ballet dancers – whose family and friends can be found dressed to the nines and proudly seated in the front row of the audience!
What to See and Do
If you can navigate your way out of the snaking city streets, make your way to one of the city’s oases at Casino Campestre. This pretty park first opened back in the 1860’s and is a lovely space to spend a little downtime when you’re not ticking off the city’s architecture – it’s even got a baseball stadium inside it, so active kids (and big kids) can have a run-around. Want to snap up a couple of souvenirs while you’re visiting? You’ll find a few popular art galleries selling unique handmade pieces at Casa de Art Jover in Plaza Agramonte. Or if you’re more of a beach fan (who isn’t?), you can soak up glorious sands a little further out from the city at Playa Santa Lucia – one of Cuba’s most beautiful beaches. With transparent waters playing host to snorkel-worthy coral reeds and sugar-white sands perfect for sinking your toes into – it’s totally worth the 90-minute drive!
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