The town founded in 1514 is a faithful reflection of its Spanish heritage with squares and museums that keep alive the traditions of colonial times. The city, likewise, boasts relics of the industrial power of the former province of Las Villas, being the seat of several villages that were nucleated around the central ones. All this, however, is only a complement to the natural wonders of the territory, with its rivers and streams that entice travelers with their beautiful and fresh waters.

Founded in 1514 in a place known as Old Town, 8 kilometres away from its present location, the settlement was relocated to the north-eastern banks of the Yayabo River in its highest point and near the water and developed around the primitive main church. Its urban layout resembling a “shattered plate” was conditioned by the natural characteristics of the area and constitutes a faithful example of medieval urbanisations where buildings from different periods of time and styles coexist, giving the old core singular elegance and great visual richness.

Sancti Spiritus’ built-up heritage covers a whole range of styles with prevailing vernacular manifestations, elements of the Mudéjar (SpanishMoorish) and neoclassical architecture, stained glasses on round arches, multi-coloured windows, big iron railings with motley designs and eaves decorated with mural paintings, which sets this town apart from other Cuban towns. The imprint of the 20th century with elements of eclecticism, art deco and the modern movement complete the historical and architectural development of this city.  

Sancti Spiritus’ historic centre, declared National Monument on 10th October 1978, is a sober architectural ensemble of colonial features which resists time and preserves almost unchanged several gems of local architecture, among which the following ones stand out: the Main Parish Church, a religious colonial construction with Romanesque and baroque elements, and the bridge over the Yayabo River, National Monument and only of its kind in Cuba because of its Romanesque style and five arches, which constitute true icons of local heritage.

Sancti Spiritus also preserves carefully a strong musical tradition with wellknown contributions to Cuba’s musical heritage, where countryside tunes and peculiar forms of musical groups, such as trios and clave choirs of unmistakable tone, distinctively stand out.