Gazing up at the peaks, a traveler might wonder how such tranquility could hold so much history. Área Protegida Topes de Collantes, nestled in the Escambray Mountains, is a place of captivating contrasts. Established in 1937 by Fulgencio Batista, Área Protegida Topes de Collantes began as a personal retreat. Batista ordered the construction of a road from Trinidad, opening up this stunning landscape. But the tranquility wouldn’t last. The very mountains that offered respite became a battleground. Topes de Collantes served as a refuge for Che Guevara’s rebel troops during the fight against Batista’s regime. It later played a role in uprisings against Fidel Castro. Today, Área Protegida Topes de Collantes offers a different kind of refuge. Visitors come to explore the trails, discover hidden waterfalls like Salto del Caburní, and experience the unique biodiversity. The park boasts endemic species, from the vibrant Tocororo, Cuba’s national bird, to over 100 fern varieties, some reaching impressive heights. Beyond the natural beauty, the Kurhotel, originally a sanatorium, now houses a remarkable collection of Cuban art. The Museo del Café offers a taste of local history and flavor. From Batista’s retreat to a revolutionary hideout, and now a haven for nature lovers and art enthusiasts, Área Protegida Topes de Collantes’ story is etched into the landscape. Its tranquility, once disrupted by conflict, now invites exploration and reflection.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to