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2024-01-23 21:12:30

Discover Baracoa the First Village in Cuba

Located in Cuba's eastern corner, Baracoa, the first Spanish-established village was founded in 1511. This secret gem holds history blending with cobblestones and lush vegetation. Its alluring colonial ambience, distinct culture, and natural surroundings attract visitors from all over the world.

Baracoa takes great pride in bearing the title of being the oldest settlement in Cuba. Though Christopher Columbus landed on Cuban soil for the first time in 1492, the Spanish required another twenty years to establish Baracoa as a town. The village's natural harbour was purposefully chosen, making it a vital port in the early stages of discovery and colonization.

You stroll around Baracoa's streets and it’ll transport you to a living history book. You can witness the Spanish colonial era's effect on architecture. The stories of the native Taino people, the conquistadors, and the memories of the days when Baracoa served as a port of entry to the New World are unavoidable.

In addition to being a lively representation of the island's Taino heritage, Baracoa is a monument to the history of Spanish colonisation. The Taino people, who lived in the area long before European settlers arrived, had a profound cultural influence. The art, music, and even culinary customs of Baracoa are examples of this blending of cultures.

El Yunque, a flat-topped mountain, is one of Baracoa's most recognisable landmarks. According to legend, El Yunque was a Taino sacred location. In addition to providing sweeping views of the surrounding jungle, hiking to the peak allows hikers to connect with the village’s spiritual past.

Baracoa is a land of tropical abundance when it comes to its food scene. The town is famous for its Cuban cocoa and surely is a chocolatier's dream come true. The town is filled with Small-scale chocolate producers.  Here, you can take tours and see the process of turning beans into bars.

Baracoa's cuisine uses the adaptable coconut fruit in many different ways. The abundant natural resources are reflected in the local gastronomy, which offers dishes flavoured with coconut milk and cool coconut water directly from the source. Cucurucho is a native speciality. Wrapped in banana leaves, this dessert is a combination of coconut, honey, almonds, and occasionally chocolate.

The surrounding natural treasures give an additional layer of fascination to Baracoa, a coastal community whose history and culture are no less fascinating.

For those looking to unwind by the sea, Playa Maguana is a tranquil haven of pure sand surrounded by verdant hills. The surrounding natural treasures such as Yumuri Canyon give an additional layer of fascination to Baracoa. Dramatic cliffs and lush valleys are created by the Yumuri River's twisting path through the dense vegetation. Baracoa's allure is enhanced by discovering undiscovered waterfalls, unique vegetation, and an unspoiled natural environment when exploring the canyon either by boat or foot.

Baracoa is a land of colourful events, reflecting the energetic nature of the Cuban people. Visit during one of the region's festivals, such as the well-known Carnival of Baracoa or the Fiesta de la Cucurucho, and you’ll be awestruck by a spectacular display of vibrant costumes, dancing, and music. Encircled by pastel-coloured colonial houses, the town plaza becomes a dance floor where both locals and tourists move to the upbeat rhythms of Cuban music.

The preservation of Baracoa's distinct personality is just as charming as the town's historical significance and scenic surroundings. Baracoa has held onto its authenticity in contrast to some other tourist spots that have given way to modernization, providing visitors with a more nuanced view of Cuba.

Being Cuba's first village, Baracoa welcomes all to explore its fascinating history, surrounding natural beauties, and local cuisine.

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