The most atmospheric part of the city is Old Santiago. Céspedes Park constitutes the political, religious, administrative and social center more important of the city. The attractive square is a genteel place with tall trees, gas lanterns and iron benches. In their perimeter were located by disposition of the Laws of Indias, the representative buildings of the power: Town Hall, Cathedral, the house of the governors and the mansions of the main families of the village. Parque Céspedes is dominated by its twin-towered cathedral. A basilica was built on this spot in 1528, but what you see was rebuilt in the early 19th century after a series of earthquakes and fires.

This venue is one of the symbols of Santiago de Cuba, where traditional rhythms such as the trova, bolero and son were born. Situated very close to the Parque Céspedes, it is the meeting place for 'trovadores', both old and new. Considered one of the most important cultural institutions in Cuba, it preserves a musical movement that is deeply-rooted in the traditions of Santiago and forms an integral part of the city's life.

Visit San Juan Historic Park, a place where it was developed an important battle of the North American-Cuban-Hispanic War, bringing the end to an era. At the helm of a brigade at this battle was a future president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt. The Peace Tree (Árbol de la Paz) is the tree in which it was signed the surrender of Santiago de Cuba. In the San Juan Hill you can admire various monuments in memory of the numbered casualties in both sides in the battle developed in the surroundings of Santiago on the first of July 1898. You can witness sculptures to the Victorious Mambí, to the Unknown North American Soldier and to the Spaniard Soldier surrounded by a series of cannons and artillery objects decorating the place. This is the only place in Cuba with a monument to the American soldier. Furthermore, quite close to the hill, a ceiba tree named the Peace Tree (Árbol de la Paz) witnessed the surrender of the city, although nowadays just remains the trunk of this historic tree which fell few months after the centenary of the battle.    

The spirit of one of the Caribbean's most vibrant street parties, Santiago's annual July carnival, is recalled in photos and newspaper clippings, floats, costumes, and musical instruments. Late afternoons here give a better sense of what carnival is like; stop by at 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday for a performance by music and dance troupes. The short spectacle of colorful costume, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and stirring song might have you planning your next trip to coincide with the main event.