One of Cuba's principal cities, Santiago de Cuba is well-known not only for its historical significance, but also for its contribution to culture. The second-largest city after Havana sits close by the Caribbean Sea, has the mountains for its background and serves as a major seaport for the island nation.

Santiago de Cuba played a large part in the Cuban Revolution. It was the home of Frank Pais, the revolutionary and urban organizer of the 26th of July Movement. Fidel Castro in Jan. 1, 1959 proclaimed the revolution's victory from a balcony on the city hall.

Besides its role in history, the city boasts significant contributions to music and dance. Popular musicians Compay Segundo, Eliades Ochoa and Ibrahim Ferrer, among others, were born there or in one of the surrounding villages. The area is also celebrated because of the son, an early variant of the salsa, and the guaguanco, a dance accompanied only by percussion music.

The Carnaval de Santiago, which happens in July, turns the whole city into a party zone. Congas played on trompeta chinas can be heard from the streets. Popular orchestras even travel to the city for the festivities.

Among the remarkable places of interest in Santiago de Cuba are the fortress of San Pedro de la Roca and the Baconao Park. The ruins of the French coffee plantations in the mountains are also a sight to behold. Other attractions include different museums, churches and parks.

Santiago de Cuba's climate is divided between the dry (November to April) and rainy (May to October) seasons. Hurricanes happen typically in September and October.

Pollux Parker is an adventurer who loves discovering secret island getaways in each country he visits. Pollux also likes to collect Cuban Flag and buy Cuban Flag http://www.republic-flag.com/cuban-flag.html.