Overview:

is an important cultural site and destination located in Santiago de Cuba. It was declared a National Monument in 1976 and consists of a large, calcite rock formation which measures 60 meters tall and is found on the Sierra Maestra mountain range near Santiago de Cuba. The site is noted for its natural beauty, important historical sites, extensive walking and hiking trails, spectacular views, and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the historic sites, visit nearby plantations and caves, and take part in geo-tours of the area. La Gran Piedra is an important part of Cuba’s cultural heritage and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cuba
Prominent Features:

, La Gran Piedra (The Great Stone) is one of Santiago de Cuba’s most prominent attractions. Located on the east coast of Cuba, a few miles from the capital city of Santiago, La Gran Piedra is a giant limestone rock that stands over 600 feet tall. The unique geological formation was formed from a hillside of limestone that was pushed up from the sea floor. The iconic landmark has become a symbol of the city, with many citizens and visitors alike coming to La Gran Piedra to witness its breathtaking beauty. The popular attraction is also a great spot for hiking, with trails that will take you to the top of the rock. Once there, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the city, the countryside, and the Caribbean Sea. La Gran Piedra is a must-see for anyone visiting the city of Santiago de Cuba. This national monument of Cuba portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

La Gran Piedra, also known as El Bastón de Velázquez, is an enormous granitic outcropping located in Santiago de Cuba. It is the largest monolith in the Caribbean, and its formation is estimated to be around 58 million years old. The stone is located about 10 kilometers east of the city of Santiago de Cuba. There is a popular local legend about the origin of this rock. According to the story, the stone was brought by the Spanish conquistador, Hernán Cortés. He is said to have brought with him the famous scepter known as El Bastón de Velázquez that was used by his ancestor, conquistador Diego Velázquez. When Cortés arrived in Havana, he threw the scepter into the sea and it is said that the scepter magically transformed into a huge rock, which is La Gran Piedra. La Gran Piedra has been a popular tourist attraction since the 19th century. The stone is a prominent natural landmark in the area, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. In recent years, La Gran Piedra has become an important symbol of Cuban culture and identity. The stone is featured on the Cuban one-peso coin, and it is used to symbolize the strength and resilience of the Cuban people. Visitors to La Gran Piedra can explore the various viewing platforms and trails that surround the giant stone. There are also several restaurants located nearby, and visitors can enjoy the wonderful views of the city from the top of the stone. La Gran Piedra continues to be an important symbol of Santiago de Cuba as well as a popular tourist destination. You must visit one of these historical places in Cuba on your Cuba tour

Interesting facts:

1. La Gran Piedra (The Great Stone) is the world’s largest monolith boulder, located in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. 2. It stands at 2,750 feet above sea level, making it the highest point in Santiago de Cuba province. 3. La Gran Piedra is estimated to weigh between 400-600 tons. 4. On a clear day, visitors can see the nearby cities of Guantanamo and Barbados from the top of the rock. 5. The trail to the top of the rock is said to have been created by the aboriginal Taíno tribe. 6. On October 16, 1947, La Gran Piedra was declared a national monument of Cuba. 7. The locals have named La Gran Piedra ‘Punkshaw Cay’, which means ‘place of good weather’ in the native Taino language. 8. The monolith and surrounding area are part of the La Gran Piedra National Park, which is home to wild birds, mammals and various species of trees. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cuba with your friends and family.