Grand Admiral Christopher Columbus landed in October 1492, on Bariay, a point on the northern coast of eastern Holguín city, located near Gibara, thus marking, with the discovery of The Americas, the beginning of a new era.
Holguín is known as la Ciudad de los parques (The City of Parks), due to the abundance of these open areas that adorn and distinguish the city. It is also identified as la Loma de la Cruz, or Hill of the Cross, an elevation that marks geographic north, the peak of which is topped by a huge wooden cross. It is precisely at the foot of this mountain--an excellent natural lookout point--that Holguín residents celebrate every year the Romerías de Mayo, a traditional popular party that, along with the Ibero-American Culture fiesta held in October, constitute two of the most important moments in the diverse cultural life of this city. Here, visitors can enjoy beautiful days in the most varied natural sceneries in Guardalavaca, Don Lino, Esmeralda and Pesquero, all beautiful beaches of clean, warm, transparent waters and fine white sand, and also the area’s abundant coastal vegetation, surrounded by a singular landscape.