Camaguey

Camagüey Province, Cuba

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Camagüey, the capital of Camagüey Province in central Cuba, is one of the country's oldest cities, founded in 1514 as Santa María del Puerto del Príncipe on the northern coast before relocating inland in 1528 to its current site amid a Taíno village, one of seven original Spanish villas on the island.

Its UNESCO-listed historic center features a maze-like layout of serpentine streets, irregular blocks, and 33 plazas designed to confuse pirates like Henry Morgan who sacked it in the 17th century, showcasing colonial architecture from neoclassical churches like Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced to eclectic mansions and symbolic tinajones—large clay jars for rainwater. 

Thriving on cattle ranching and sugar production historically, the provincial hub now blends cultural vibrancy with tin-roofed homes, equestrian statues honoring independence heroes like Ignacio Agramonte, and a lively student scene near its university.