The Spanish Discovery of Cuba

1492–1519

Columbus reached Cuba in 1492. From 1511 the conquistador Diego Velázquez founded the island's first seven villas — beginning with Baracoa, then Bayamo, Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus, Havana, Puerto Príncipe (Camagüey) and Santiago. These pages trace where Spanish Cuba began.

Havana

La Habana

Havana is a city in La Habana province, Cuba. It is known for historic old town, colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage site and live music.

Trinidad

Sancti Spíritus

Trinidad is a town in Sancti Spíritus province, Cuba. It is known for colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage site, historic old town and live music.

Santiago de Cuba

Santiago de Cuba is a city in Santiago de Cuba province, Cuba. It is known for live music, history, local culture and colonial architecture.

Baracoa

Guantánamo

Baracoa is a town in Guantánamo province, Cuba. It is known for nature, beaches, history and food.

Camagüey

Camagüey is a city in Camagüey province, Cuba. It is known for colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage site, historic old town and architecture.