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Baracoa, Cuba

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Baracoa, CubaBaracoa, Cuba
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Baracoa_5705.JPG
Author: San Roman, Jorge E.
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Baracoa is a town on the eastern part of Cuba. Located near the eastern tip of the island, Baracoa covers 977 sq km (377.2 sq mi) and has a population of 82,000 people (2011 estimate). The city observes the Eastern Standard Time (UTC-5).

Baracoa is the oldest town in Cuba. This was where Christopher Columbus first landed when he arrived in Cuba. The city itself was founded by Spanish conquistador Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar in 1511.

Baracoa is located on the Bay of Honey (Bahía del Miel). Surrounding the city is the Sierra del Purial mountain range, which isolated the city from the rest of Cuba. There is only one mountain road linking it to the rest of Cuba. It was built in the 1960s.

Bahía del Miel, BaracoaBahía del Miel, Baracoa
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bay_in_Baracoa_-_Cuba.jpg
Author: Adam Jones
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Due to its isolation, Baracoa is off the main tourist trail. This helps to keep it idyllic and pristine. Visiting the city, you can see old houses and buildings from the early 19th century.

Visiting Baracoa

The Gustavo Rizo Airport (BCA) receives domestic flights from Havana.

Sights & Attractions in Baracoa

  1. Casa de la Cultura
    Building with an eclectic blend of architectural style, where performances and events are staged.

  2. Casa de la Trova
    Historic building in Baracoa.

  3. Casa del Chocolate
    Center for enjoying the fine chocolates, as Baracoa cocoa is one of the finest in the country.

  4. Castillo de Seboruco
    18th century fortress overlooking Baracoa.

  5. Catderal de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
    A simple church, first built in 1512 and rebuilt in 1833, housing a wooden cross, the oldest symbol of Christianity in the New World.

  6. El Malecón
    Seafront between the two forts of Baracoa - Fuerte Matachín to the east and Fuerte de la Punta (now a restaurant) to the west.

  7. Fuerte Matachin (Museo Municipal)
    A fortress that today houses a museum providing information on the local history.

  8. Hotel La Rusa
    Historic hotel that once belonged to the Russian princess Magdalena Rowenskaya.

  9. Parque Independencia
    The park and square in the heart of Baracoa.

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