Sancti Spiritus a Hidden Gem

Puente Yayabo is Cuba’s oldest existing bridge, dating back to 1815, is in Sancti Spiritus. This local icon, constructed entirely from local stone, is the type of bridge that could easily be found anywhere in Europe.

The Taberna Yayabo, a tavern has the most picturesque views of both the bridge and the gently-flowing river. Take a moment here to enjoy the view with a glass of your favourite beverage.

Sancti Spiritus proudly hosts Cuba’s oldest church, the Iglesia Parroquial Mayor, just two blocks south of the main square. Built in the mid-seventeenth century, it features a distinctive blue exterior and a towering 30-meter bell tower. The panoramic view from the top, reached by climbing 86 steps, is truly worth it. This church stands as a testament to the strong influence of Catholicism on the city’s inhabitants. Inside, the church is filled with numerous donations from parishioners, including a golden dove.

The main entrance, known as the Puerta del Perdon or Gate of Forgiveness, is a fascinating story. In fact legend has it that a woman known for her unpleasant manner, asked to be buried there. Believing that parishioners walking over her as they entered and left the church would serve as penance for her sins.

The Cuban government has owned their former residence since 1961, preserving 90% of its original contents. Indeed the museum boasts an large collection of artworks and artifacts. From French Limoges porcelain to Baccarat crystal chandeliers. The star attraction however, is an American-bought piano from the mid-eighteenth century, one of only two in all of Cuba.

The Biblioteca Publica Provincial Ruben Martinez Villena is affectionately known as the Biblioteca Provincial. Undoubtedly it’s the city’s most beautiful library. In the late 1920s, it also served as a gathering place for  the Sociedad el Progreso. A group of socially progressive and elite residents known for their progressive ideas.

The Biblioteca Publica Provincial Ruben Martinez Villena has been a venue for numerous cultural events over the years. It was even chosen for the city’s first television broadcast. However in recent times it has been transformed into a public library. Inside, visitors can still see a splendid collection of Carrara marble sculptures. The church is also decorated with painted ceilings and stained glass windows, offering a sight worth stopping to admire.

The Teatro Principal was designed in the neoclassical style similar to the Biblioteca Provincial built 90 years earlier.

It received much of its funding from locals who were eager for a proper theatre to replace the makeshift stage on Calle Real. Impressively, the theatre’s construction was completed in just 11 months. Moreover, many experts believe that it’s the oldest theatre in Cuba that still retains its original design.

The city is filled with many charming cobblestone streets. Perhaps the most photogenic are Calle Llano, Calle San Miguel, and Calle Guairo. During the day, these streets bustle with local markets selling fruit and vegetables and household goods. As the sun goes down, the locals come out to socialise in the cool of the evening. Sancti Spiritus a hidden gem at the very least!

Sancti Spiritus a Hidden Gem: Conclusion