Overview:

is an iconic public space in the city of Sancti Spíritus, Cuba, located in the heart of the city. Built in 1804, this large rectangular plaza is surrounded by numerous buildings and monuments, including a central gazebo, a church, and the city's only hotel. It is commonly used for public events and festivities, and is a central point of activity for the city. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cuba
Prominent Features:

The Plaza Mayor of Sancti Spíritus is one of the main attractions of the city. Built in 1737, the plaza has been the center of the city's activity since colonial times. It is surrounded by some of the oldest and most emblematic buildings in the country. The most recognizable building in the Plaza Mayor is the Teatro Principal. Built in 1812, it is one of the oldest theaters in Cuba and still shows different plays that range from drama to musicals. The picturesque architecture of the plaza includes the Fuerza Vieja, a 16th century fort. Visitors can see cannons, the entrance gate, and water tanks that were used as protection from pirate attacks in the 17th century. At the center of the plaza is an equestrian statue of José Antonio Echevarría, a hero of the Cuban Revolution. The statue is surrounded by trees and benches, making it a peaceful spot to relax and appreciate the surroundings. The Plaza Mayor of Sancti Spíritus is a great place to gather with locals, enjoy a cup of coffee, or explore the remarkable history of the city. This national monument of Cuba portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Plaza Mayor of Sancti Spíritus, known also as the Parque Céspedes, is the main square of the city of Sancti Spíritus, located in the province of the same name in Cuba. It is located between the Vía Blanca and the Paseo Agramonte. It is named after Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, the Father of the Fatherland, who proclaimed the Cuban war of independence against Spain which began on October 10, 1868, from his home in La Demajagua in the province of Granma, near the Bay of Niquero. The square was the center of the colonial city, and today continues to be the principal public space and important landmark in the city. As such it has served to host many events throughout history, from festivals to revolutionary rallies. It is home to several important monuments and statues from historical figures from Cuban history, such as the tribute to the “Mambí” Generals Antonio Maceo and Calixto García, the sculpture of the poet and librarian Juan Cristóbal Nápoles Fajardo (also known as Panchito Nápoles), and the statue of José María Heredia, the famous Cuban poet. Most notably, the plaza has served as the site of countless public events, including the swearing-in of Fidel Castro as Prime Minister of Cuba in 1959, as well as the speech in 1986 during which Fidel announced the start of the “rectification process”. It is also an important meeting place for local inhabitants and visitors and serves as an important cultural and educational centre, hosting concerts, art exhibitions and other cultural activities. You must visit one of these historical places in Cuba on your Cuba tour

Interesting facts:

1. Plaza Mayor is the main square of the Caribbean city of Sancti Spíritus, Cuba. It was built in the 18th century and is a well-known attraction due to its beautiful architecture. 2. The square is an excellent location to get acquainted with the culture of the capital of Sancti Spíritus, as it is home to many churches, government buildings, markets, and restaurants. 3. The Plaza Mayor was once the site of a public theatre, which was destroyed by a fire in 1895. 4. Not only is it the social and political center of the city, but it also functions as a venue for significant social gatherings, artistic shows, and festivals. 5. One of the most celebrated festivals in the city, the Sancti Spíritus International Folklore Festival, is held annually in the Plaza Mayor. 6. The Plaza Mayor of Sancti Spíritus is considered a national historical monument due to its architectural uniqueness. 7. Located at the edges of the plaza are five beautiful statues by renowned sculptor Abel Ramírez, depicting historical characters including José Martí, the Cuban national hero. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cuba with your friends and family.