Discover Cuba’s colonial history on your holiday

If you’re thinking of booking a history-themed holiday, turn your attention to Cuba. The island country in the Caribbean would be my personal pick as it has a rich and turbulent past, which is something I’d like to find out more about firsthand. Read on to discover a little more about this fascinating nation.

Cuba – a brief history

Christopher Columbus landed on the island in 1492, after which Cuba became a Spanish colony. Later, in 1762, the nation was occupied by Great Britain before being handed back to Spain. A series of rebellions were staged in the country during the 19th century in a bid to bring an end to Spanish sovereignty, but they failed. The Spanish-American War ensued and the Spanish withdrew from Cuba in 1898. The island nation gained independence in 1902.

In the years that followed, Cuba experienced an economic boom but also had to deal with the corruption of some of its leaders. During the Cuban Revolution, the dictator Fulgencio Batista was overthrown by communist revolutionary Fidel Castro and his second in command Argentine revolutionary Che Guevara. Castro became the country’s leader until 2008, when he was replaced by his brother Raul Castro.

Top historical attractions

Cuba boasts a great many landmarks, monuments and sites of interest that can help broaden your awareness of the country’s colonial history. Below are my top must-visits for history buffs staying at hotels in Cuba.

Revolution Square

Located in the nation’s capital, Havana, Revolution Square is the spot where many political rallies have taken place over the years, as well as addresses by the country’s leaders. Here, you’ll find a memorial to Jose Marti, who was a writer, philosopher and political theorist, as well as something of a national hero and a symbol of the fight for independence.

Opposite the memorial is an image of Che Guevara emblazoned on the wall of the Ministry of the Interior building, while close by are the former offices of Fidel Castro.

Che Guevara Mausoleum

Che Guevara was such an important figure in Cuban history it’s little surprise this national hero has a prominent grave. The remains of the Marxist revolutionary, along with a number of his followers, can be found entombed at a memorial in Santa Clara, which is also known as the City of Che.

He and his fellow combatants were executed in Bolivia in 1967 and their remains returned to Cuba in 1997. You’ll find a 22 ft bronze statue of Guevara at the burial site, along with a museum dedicated to his life. There’s also an eternal flame lit by Fidel Castro to commemorate the guerrilla and his achievements.

Old Havana

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Havana boasts buildings that date back to 1519, when the city was a depository for the treasures brought to the New World by the Spanish fleets. A sea wall was constructed here in the 17th century and Havana became a haven for trade and commerce. Now, the area is a bustling centre for culture and politics, and the National Ballet of Cuba along with museums and art galleries are all based here.

Trinidad

The town of Trinidad harks back to Cuba’s colonial past with its cobbled streets and charming old buildings. Established in the 16th century, the settlement is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a result of its historical characteristics.

Take a look at the Valley of the Sugar Mills, which is home to around 70 old mills, and admire the traditional colonial houses with their terracotta tiles and colourful plasterwork. It’s also worth heading to the Municipal History Museum to learn more about the area’s past.

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