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Historic Baracoa
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Historical site
Baracoa, the oldest city in Cuba, was founded in 1511 by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar as Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Baracoa. For nearly four centuries, the settlement remained largely isolated from the rest of the island, accessible only by sea until the completion of the La Farola mountain road in the 1960s. This prolonged isolation preserved its unique colonial architecture and distinct culinary traditions, which heavily feature coconut and cocoa. The city's cathedral houses the Cruz de la Parra, the only surviving cross planted by Christopher Columbus during his first voyage in 1492. Overlooking the bay is the distinctive flat-topped mountain El Yunque, which served as a vital navigation landmark for early European explorers. The surrounding region is the primary center of Cuba's chocolate and cocoa industry due to its high annual rainfall and fertile soil. Baracoa also served as the first capital of Cuba and the island's first bishopric.
- Location: Cuba
- Top sights: Cruz de la Parra · Co-Cathedral of Baracoa · Baracoa
- Nearby: Imías (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 23 | 32 | 41 | 97 | 77 | 51 | 69 | 93 | 142 | 81 | 41 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Historic Baracoa is a town that can be freely visited. The old town with its colonial buildings is accessible at any time. Some museums and churches have fixed hours and charge entry fees.
Typical hours
The old town is walkable 24/7. Museums typically open from 9 am to 5 pm, churches often only during services. Check locally.
Photography
Photography is allowed on public streets and squares. In museums and churches there may be restrictions, especially on flash.
Time needed
A walk through the old town takes about 1-2 hours. For multiple museums and churches, allow half a day.
Combine with
Combine the sightseeing with a trip to nearby Alejandro de Humboldt National Park. The beaches around Baracoa are also worth visiting.
Getting there
Baracoa is located in eastern Cuba, reachable by car or bus from Santiago de Cuba. The trip takes about 4-5 hours. Domestic flights are also available.
Insider tip
Try the local chocolate and typical dishes in the old town restaurants. Book accommodation in advance as the town is popular among tourists.
History & landmarks
1511
Geography
Facts
- Founded in the year 1511
- Home to the 1492 Cruz de la Parra cross
- El Yunque mountain stands 575 meters high
- La Farola road built between 1964-1965
- First capital of the island of Cuba
- Center of Cuban chocolate and cocoa production
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Historic Baracoa (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Baracoa historically significant?
It was the first city discovered by Columbus in Cuba in 1492 and the first capital.
What is the Cruz de la Parra?
The oldest preserved Christian cross in the New World, kept in the church of Baracoa.
Is the journey there difficult?
The La Farola mountain road is winding and steep but provides spectacular views.
What is the typical food in Baracoa?
Dishes with coconut and chocolate, as well as Cucurucho (a coconut sweet).
What is the El Yunque flat-top mountain?
A distinctive mountain looming over the city and a popular hiking destination.
Historic Baracoa: where is it located?
Historic Baracoa is located in Cuba.
Historic Baracoa: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cruz de la Parra, Co-Cathedral of Baracoa, Baracoa.
Historic Baracoa: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Historic Baracoa: why is it worth visiting?
Baracoa, the oldest city in Cuba, was founded in 1511 by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar as Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Baracoa.
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