Known as the Pearl of the South, Cienfuegos is located 245 km from Havana and 658 km from Santiago de Cuba. It is home to one of the country’s most important ports, playing a key role in trade and cultural exchange. In 2005, UNESCO recognized its historic center as a World Heritage Site, highlighting its architectural and urban significance.

The city boasts a dynamic artistic scene with numerous galleries and cultural spaces. One notable example is the “Marilyn Monroe Studio Workshop,” situated on Prado Boulevard, where talented young artists showcase their work in an effort to preserve academic art traditions.

Cienfuegos was designed with a grid-like layout, making it one of the most well-planned cities in Cuba. Its eclectic architecture retains strong neoclassical influences, with buildings that seamlessly integrate with their surroundings. One of its most iconic public spaces is José Martí Park, a central gathering spot surrounded by historic landmarks that reflect the city’s rich heritage.