The Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca is a famous historical fortress built on the coast of Santiago de Cuba. It has been appointed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1997, representing one of the best preserved and perfect examples of a Spanish-American military structure. The fortress was built in the 17th century as ordered by Spanish King Philip II for the city’s protection against roaming pirates. Juan Bautista Antonelli, an Italian military engineer, designed the fortress’ unique structure. It was expanded in the 1638 under Governor Pedro de la Roca and further reconstructed in the years that followed.

The unique design of Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca is intended for the steep side of the fortress’ location. When on top, the coast and other small islands can be seen which is very fulfilling for the eyes. Walking inside the fortress provides an appreciation of ancient architecture and an individual can feel what life was like in early times. It was built to protect against pirates, so there are many terraces, defensive walls and bulwarks constructed adding to the fortress’ magnificent design. In the 18th century, some of the fortress parts were used as a prison for political threats. These parts are The Rock or La Roca and The Star or La Estrella. In the early 20th century, The Rock has been damaged but successfully restored by Francisco Prat Puig. Currently, the fortress’ beauty is fully restored and truly rewarding.

Have an appreciation of the ancient infrastructures with a trip at Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca. Bus trips are available for tourists but it can also be reached through a taxi for a little higher price. Arrival of tourists is in highest number during summer and this is the best time of visiting it because the weather is good. Have a trip to this famous fortress and appreciate its rich history.

If you want to travel back in time to an earlier destination, a trip in an old city would do. Old Havana in Cuba is a breath-taking place, composed of various old infrastructures. The city of Havana originated during the year 1519, along with the prosperity of Galleon trade. The city is located near the bay, so the treasures of Spanish Galleon ships were continuously brought in there. Because of this, the city prospered and many infrastructures were built in neoclassic and baroque style. These structures have been well, preserved making Old Havana a trip to the ancient world.

Old Havana is famous for its old fortresses, churches and buildings which are as follows:

* There are four old fortresses which still stand nowadays. These are the Castillo Los Tres Reyes Del Morro, La Cabaña, San Salvador de la Punta and Castillo de la Real Fuerza. La Cabaña is the most famous above all because of its magnificent structure.

* There are two historical churches that are popular among tourists, the Cathedral de San Cristobal and San Francisco de la Habana Basilica. The two churches are built between 17th and 18th century in baroque style of architecture.

* The Plaza de Armas is an open space or square built initially for military ceremonies. Currently, this is where tourists stay for a wide view of the old city.

* The Gran Teatro de la Habana, also known as the Great Theater of Havana, is well-known for the performances of National Opera and National Ballet of Cuba.

* The Museum of the Revolution is famous for its artifacts from the rich history of Havana.

Old Havana was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1982 because of the city’s preservation of ancient structures. Tour buses are now available for tourists in order to have a look on every old buildings of the city. Various tour companies are around offering trips from place to place; this is convenient rather than exploring the city alone. Appreciate history and have a time travel like vacation at Old Havana.