Introducing Sancti Spíritus
For first-time visitors, unassuming Sancti Spíritus often seems like a larger and slightly less frenetic version of Trinidad. Antique Buicks limp asthmatically down cobbled city streets; bevies of enthusiastic school children practice stickball in languid Parque Serafín Sánchez; a plaintive and lilting bolero (a romantic love song) briefly interrupts the sleepy tranquility of Av Jesús Menéndez.
Advertisement
Founded in 1514 as one of Diego Velázquez' seven original 'villas', Sancti Spíritus was moved to its present site on the Río Yayabo in 1522. But the relocation didn't stop audacious corsairs, who continued to loot the town until well into the 1660s.
Lacking the historical importance of Trinidad or the pulsating cultural buzz of Santa Clara, Sancti Spíritus has developed into something of a transit town for travelers heading west or east. But a day or two's layover needn't be wasted. As well as possessing a thoroughly charming city center, Sancti Spíritus is also famous for the dapper guayabera shirt and the guayaba (guava) fruit, a crop that is still grown along the banks of the Río Yayabo, from which it derives its name.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
-
New USA-Cuba travel: National Geographic Expeditions
by Caney 02 September 2011
National Geographic Expeditions ofrecerá excursiones a Cuba Las excursiones se ofrecen con el título de “Cuba: Descubriendo su pueblo…
-
RE: Another trip report
by vballf 27 August 2011
What I found a few years ago was that tourists ARE supposed to be able to use the Astro line, at increased rates, but some agents just…
-
RE: Buying and selling real estate in Cuba; the new order
by johnabbotsford 19 August 2011
Oops sorry Draj and Travis - falling stockmarket (again - sob!) distracted me this AM. Meant to write " .... but can't remember ever having…
Hotels & Hostels
Check out all our reviewed and recommended accommodation and book online.
Advertisement







