A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Santa Clara: The City of Che and the Cuban Revolution

Introduction

Santa Clara, located in the heart of Cuba, is a city that vibrates with rich history and culture. Known as the City of Che, Santa Clara is famous for being the place where the revolutionary Ernesto Che Guevara led one of the most decisive battles of the Cuban Revolution. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Monument to the Taking of the Armored Train

The Monument to the Taking of the Armored Train is one of the most emblematic places in Santa Clara. This monument commemorates the battle in which Che Guevara and his guerrillas derailed an armored train, marking a turning point in the Cuban Revolution. The monument consists of a park and a museum where visitors can learn more about this historic battle.

Che Guevara Mausoleum

The Che Guevara Mausoleum is another of the main attractions in Santa Clara. This impressive monument houses the remains of Che Guevara and other fighters who died in Bolivia. The mausoleum also features a museum that displays personal items of Che and offers a detailed insight into his life and his role in the Cuban Revolution.

Vidal Park

Vidal Park is the heart of Santa Clara. This lively park is a popular place for locals and tourists alike, with its beautiful architecture, numerous benches for resting, and constant activity. Surrounding the park are several historic buildings, such as La Caridad Theater and the Cathedral of Santa Clara de Asís.

La Caridad Theater

La Caridad Theater is one of the three major colonial theaters in Cuba. It was built in 1885 by Marta Abreu, a local benefactor, and is a must-see for lovers of architecture and culture. The theater still hosts shows regularly, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy Cuban music and art.

Cathedral of Santa Clara de Asís

The Cathedral of Santa Clara de Asís is another of the historic buildings surrounding Vidal Park. This beautiful cathedral is famous for its impressive neo-Gothic architecture and its beautiful stained glass windows. The cathedral is a place of peace and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Surroundings of Santa Clara

The surroundings of Santa Clara also have much to offer. A short distance from the city is the Hanabanilla Reservoir, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains where you can enjoy fishing and boating. Also near Santa Clara is El Nicho National Park, a natural paradise with waterfalls, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.

Gastronomic Products of Santa Clara

• Roast Piglet

  Santa Clara is famous for its roast piglet, a traditional Cuban dish that is served on special occasions. The pig is marinated in a mix of sour orange juice, garlic, oregano, and other seasonings, then slowly roasted until the skin is crispy and the inside juicy. It's a dish you can't miss when you visit Santa Clara.

• Old Clothes

  Old Clothes is another traditional Cuban dish that can be found in Santa Clara. This dish consists of shredded beef that is slowly cooked in a tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and garlic. The result is a tasty and comforting dish that is often served with rice and black beans.

• Cuban Cocktails

  Santa Clara is also a great place to enjoy famous Cuban cocktails. The mojito, the daiquiri, and the cuba libre are just some of the cocktails you can try. These cocktails are made with high-quality Cuban rum and are the perfect drink to enjoy on a hot afternoon in Santa Clara.

• Cuban Tobacco

  Although not a gastronomic product in the traditional sense, Cuban tobacco is a famous product that can be found in Santa Clara. Cuban cigars are known worldwide for their quality and distinctive flavor. You can visit a tobacco factory to see how the cigars are made and buy some to take home.

Sporting Activities in Santa Clara, Cuba

Diving

Santa Clara is located near some of the best diving areas in Cuba. Tourists can explore the stunning coral reefs and marine life in places like the Northern Cays.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Santa Clara. Visitors can rent a boat and spend the day fishing in the ocean, or they can participate in a guided fishing tour.

Hiking

The natural landscape around Santa Clara is ideal for hiking. Visitors can explore the hills and forests in the area, enjoying panoramic views of the city and countryside.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Santa Clara and its surroundings. Visitors can rent bicycles and tour the city at their own pace, or they can join a guided bike tour.

Baseball

Baseball is the national sport of Cuba and Santa Clara is home to one of the country's most popular teams, the Villa Clara Leopards. Visitors can attend a game at Sandino Stadium to experience the Cubans' passion for this sport.

Places near Santa Clara

If you are in Santa Clara and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Trinidad, Cuba's colonial jewel, offers a unique tourist experience with its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and vibrant culinary scene, which stands out for its traditional Cuban dishes, fresh seafood and famous rum cocktails.

Cienfuegos, known as the Pearl of the South, is a Cuban architectural gem with stunning sea views. Visitors can enjoy its rich Creole cuisine, featuring fresh seafood dishes, in an atmosphere full of music and culture.