MIAMI, United States. — On May 27, 1867, by Royal Order, Sancti Spíritus was granted the title of city.
Sancti Spíritus was one of the first towns founded in Cuba by Diego Velázquez during the beginning of the Spanish colonization.
Initially established in 1514 on the banks of the Tunicú River, the town was moved six years later to the banks of the Yayabo River, when its inhabitants decided to leave in search of economic improvements.
Sancti Spíritus is one of the oldest cities in Cuba. Due to its rich history, it has a well-preserved center (National Heritage) made up of cobblestone streets, colonial houses and buildings such as the Iglesia Parroquial Mayor del Espíritu Santo, dating from the 18th century.
The city also has several museums that exhibit the history and culture of the region, such as the Museum of Colonial Art, the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art, among others.
One of the most recognized symbols of Sancti Spíritus is the Yayabo River Bridge. Construction began in 1817 and was officially inaugurated in 1825. Its design resembles that of a medieval bridge because it is made of hewn stone.
Unlike Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus continued to grow in the 20th century, contributed to by the existence of communication routes such as the Central Railroad, with which it was linked by a branch inaugurated in December 1903, and the Central Highway, completed during the presidency of Gerardo Machado.
Also during the first half of the 20th century, banks, theaters, societies, hotels, shops, pharmacies, private clinics and more sumptuous houses were built for what traditional styles were not suitable for.
