Camaguey

About

Founded in 1514 by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar, Camaguey was one of Spain’s seven original settlements in Cuba. This first town was abandoned in 1528, and the colonists relocated further inland for safety. Even this didn’t save it from being burned to the ground by Henry Morgan, after which the city was rebuilt as a maze to confuse any future attackers. While Cuba’s third largest city isn’t a typical tourist stop, the warren of narrow streets, colorful colonial buildings, and rich culture make it second only to Havana in sophistication, and earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The best thing to do here is simply wander the historic center’s maze of streets. There are dozens of nooks and crannies to explore, as well as wide open squares lined with charming houses and baroque churches. Camaguey is also a cultural hub, and there are a huge number of art galleries and studios to discover. While walking, keep an eye out for the many clay pots - they’re the symbol of the city, and used by locals to catch water in the arid climate.