Overview:

: The Sierra de Escambray-Sancti Spíritus in Cuba is a mountain range located in the central part of the island. It is located on the north bank of the Río Cauto, between the provinces of Sancti Spíritus and Ciego de Ávila. The range also extends to the north, along the old La Palma-Jobabo road, which terminates at La Utlilla beach. The elevation in the range varies greatly, with the highest peak being El Cerro de Nuestra Señora at 1,562 meters (5,128 feet). The Sierra de Escambray has been declared a National Park by the Cuban government in 2008. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Cuban Solenodon. It is also an important area for birdwatchers and hikers, with numerous trails, campsites, waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife to observe. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cuba
Prominent Features:

1. Lush Mountainous Forests: The Sierra de Escambray in Sancti Spíritus, Cuba is home to an array of lush mountainous vegetation, including pine and palm forests, wild orchids, ceiba and royal palm trees, cedar, mahogany, almond, and mango trees. 2. Nature Reserves: This region is teeming with flora and fauna, attracting many wildlife enthusiasts to explore its natural reserves. Some of these include the Turquino National Park and Escambray Mountain Reserve, where animal species like the jutía (Guanabara Pikasing), crested eagle and hummingbird can be observed. 3. Water Sources: The Sierra de Escambray mountain range is home to several stunning water sources, like the Yaguajay waterfalls, Puentecito de Agua and La Troncal River. 4. Villages and hamlets: Alongside breathtaking natural scenery, the Sierra de Escambray offers a glimpse of its rural lifestyle in its numerous villages, such as La Boca, El Salto, El Vergel, and El Fraile. 5. Historical landmarks: This region is also full of historical landmarks from the Cuban Revolution such as El Jigué, the Sierra Cristal National Park, and the El Carnicero manor which served as the first rural school in Cuba. This national monument of Cuba portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Sierra de Escambray in Sancti Spíritus, Cuba is a region located between the Caribbean lowlands and the Central Plains. It is rich in history and culture and has been the primary source of industry in the province for centuries. The region has served as an important producer of sugar, coffee, tobacco, and other products, and was one of the first sites of Spanish colonial settlements in Cuba. Since then, it has become a hub of economic and cultural activity. The Sierra de Escambray has roots that date back to the pre-Columbian Taino people, and the surrounding area has been populated since approximately 1000 BC. In 1512, Diego Velázquez established Vera Cruz in the area, and this settlement served as the capital of Cuba until 1519. Following its destruction at the hands of pirates, the city was rebuilt in 1535 and renamed Sancti Spíritus. The region’s agricultural industry began to develop in the 1600s, with the introduction of sugarcane to the region by Spanish settlers. This allowed the development of a lucrative sugar trade, which endured until the 19th century. At this point, tobacco began to be cultivated in additional, leading to an alternative source of income for wealthy landowners. In the 1950s, the Sierra de Escambray saw a rise in its population due to the Cuban Revolution and its focus on agrarian reform. During this period, the Castro regime allowed cooperatives to facilitate land reform, and encouraged the cultivation of coffee and other products in the region. This helped to spur economic growth in the area and allowed for the development of tourist infrastructure, such as hotels, restaurants, and transport networks. Additionally, the region has seen increased investment in its infrastructure and roads, which have allowed the continuation of economic growth. Today, the Sierra de Escambray is an important center for industry and culture in Cuba. Its agricultural sector is still thriving, producing sugar, tobacco, coffee, and other products for export. Additionally, its popularity as a tourist destination has made it an important source of revenue for the province. Its growing infrastructure has allowed for increased opportunity in the region, as well as the preservation of its unique history and culture. The Sierra de Escambray remains an important part of Cuban society and will continue to provide industry and opportunity for the people of Sancti Spíritus for many years to come. You must visit one of these historical places in Cuba on your Cuba tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Sierra de Escambray is located in the central part of Sancti Spíritus, Cuba. 2. The area is a unique landscape of limestone hills and mountains, with a high diversity of plant and animal species. 3. The Sierra de Escambray is the oldest mountain range in Cuba. It is believed to have been formed about 1 million years ago. 4. The area is home to a number of endemic species such as the Cuban kestrel, the giant toad, and several species of birds. 5. The mountainous landscape is home to one of the 19 UNESCO biosphere reserves located in Cuba. 6. Over 270 species of birds can be found in the Sierra de Escambray, making it a popular destination for bird watching. 7. The area is also known for its historical importance, having served as an important refuge for Cuban revolutionaries during the revolution of 1959. 8. The Sierra de Escambray is a popular tourist destination for adventure activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cuba with your friends and family.