Remedios, also known as San Juan de los Remedios, is one of the most authentic colonial cities in Cuba. Founded between 1513 and 1524, it’s the oldest Spanish settlement in the former Las Villas province – now a quaint corner of the Villa Clara province – and a must visit for history buffs.
This historical center was crowned a national monument in 1980, and with such spectacular architecture, parks, landmarks, walks, and more, it’s easy to see why. The first place to head is the central Plaza Martí. Partially restored in 1970, this square buzzes with atmosphere and you can discover a handful of beautiful 18th and 19th century colonial buildings, stunning monuments, swaying palms, plus not one but two churches – Nuestra Señora del Buen Viaje and Parroquial Mayor de San Juan Bautista (complete with no less than 13 awe-inspiring gold-encrusted altars). Equally, the colonial style Teatro Rubén Martinez Villena building is another sight to behold. Once you’ve soaked up the sights, take a leisurely stroll in the spacious park located in the heart of the plaza – a great spot for a picnic with a view.
If you like to learn about the local history and culture of a place, it’s worth visiting the Museo de las Parrandas Remedianas (Las Parrandas Remedianas Museum) for its tales of the city’s celebrations, or the Museo Municipal Francisco Javier Balmaseda (Francisco Javier Balmaseda Municipal Museum) – one of the oldest museums in Cuba – for its fascinating exhibitions. Or, if you’re interested in learning about Cuba’s sugar cane industry (crowned as one of the largest in the world) then make the trip to Museo de Agroindustria Azucarera Marcelo Salado (Marcelo Salado Sugar Industry Museum) where you can wander the museum which houses part of the former regional sugar mill. Plus, attached to the same building you’ll also find the Museo del Vapor (Steam Engine Museum) where you can marvel over a collection of locomotives and steam engines!
Want to liven things up? Remedios is renowned for hosting one of the most important festival celebrations in the days leading up to Christmas, Las Parrandas de Remedios Festival. In 1820, it’s believed that a young priest noticed a lack of attendance to mass services, so tasked children to parade around the streets with tin cans, horns, and rattles, to make as much noise as possible and attract churchgoers. This has since developed into a full-blown carnival and to this day the city comes alive with bright lights, atmospheric street parties, colourful parades, rumba, and fireworks from the 16th – 25 December. In fact, the festival is so popular that it’s been hailed a National Cultural Heritage since 2013. If you’re travelling to Cuba during December (since it’s a year-round destination you can expect beautiful winter sun) it’s one of the best experiences you can have.
However you decide to spend your time in this dynamic city, it’s a fantastic example of authentic Cuban life. At Love Cuba, we believe the lack of tourists crowds in Remedios is what makes it that little bit more special to visit, allowing visitors to absorb the local culture in all its glory. But don’t just take our word for it…
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info or call us on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com
