San Juan de Remedios Tourist Attractions
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San Juan de Remedios, usually just called Remedios is a peaceful and beautiful town on the northern coastline of Cuba. The historic city center around Plaza Marti contains some lovely colonial architecture. Most of the buildings date to after 1692 when a fire swept through Remedios. The central plaza is a nice area to relax and watch people pass by. The church, Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Remedios, which sits on the square, was built in 1692 on the foundations of an existing church that was constructed in 1570. Consequently this church has the distinction of being the oldest church in Cuba.There are a few museums and other attractions in Remedios but overall it is just a pleasant town to spend a few days and a good base for exploring the surrounding areas.For visitors who happen be in San Juan de Remedios around Christmas time, the festivities on December 24 are not to be missed, and due to the noise level, likely won't be missed. A festival with parades and much celebrating is held on this day. There is an old tradition in the town which calls on children to wake the town's people for midnight mass, which has turned into a noise making competition!
Iglesia San Juan Bautista de Remedios (Cathedral)
The Iglesia San Juan Bautista de Remedios in San Juan de Remedios is credited with being the oldest Church in Cuba. The present church was built in 1692 on the existing structure of a church that was originally constructed in 1570. In the mid 1900s, an American millionaire who was able to trace his family tree back to the town of Santa Clara, financed the renovation of the Iglesia San Juan Bautista de Remedios. The bell tower is a neo-Classical design and the interior is a baroque. Some of the most important features to look for are the ornate ceiling and the gold leaf covered cedar altar.
Museo de las Parrandas Remedianas
The Museo de las Parrandas Remedianas deals with the December 24 festival traditions in San Juan de Remedios. On display at the museum is information on the history of the tradition of festivities and noise making in Remedios on the night before Christmas. In the basement visitors will find photos of the last December 24 festival events. The museum is quite interesting and covers everything from the construction of fireworks to displays on costumes and musical instruments used in previous celebrations. Guided tours of the Museo de las Parrandas Remedianas are available and provide interesting insight into the traditions.
