DAY 6: THE SPIRITUAL SIDE OF MULTICULTURAL CUBA


religion in cuban life Witness religion’s important role in Cuban society as you interact with Cubans and learn about religious traditions and influences today. A visit to Havana’s Colón Cemetery – one of the world’s largest and the final resting place of noted Cubanos from all walks of life – reveals elaborate memorial architecture that reflects Cuba’s Catholic roots. Meet with members of one of several faith-based charitable organizations currently at work in Havana to talk about their ongoing educational, medical and spiritual support. Discuss the group’s community-based outreach efforts with volunteers, and perhaps even have an opportunity to lend a helping hand yourself. Have lunch today in Old Havana.


santería & Afro-cuban culture A walk through Havana Vieja leads to Casa de Africa. Set within a former Spanish-Colonial palace, this museum and ethnographic research center showcases the history and culture of Africa and its influences on Cuba and the Americas, including a collection of sacred artifacts related to Santería – an Afro-Cuban religion drawing upon West African, Caribbean and Catholic traditions. See demonstrations of multicultural traditions, and talk with local experts and museum staff for insights on Africa’s significant cultural impact on Cuba as well as on the U.S. Meals BLD


San Franciso de asis, Havana


Completed towards the end of the 1500s and later “updated” in the Baroque style, this basilica and monastery dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi is one of the examples of Spanish-Colonial religious architecture you’ll see in Old Havana; currently, it is used as a concert venue.


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afro-cuban traditions At Casa de Africa, discuss cultural traditions and artifacts


involved in Santería and other Afro-Cuban religions reflecting a mix of African, Caribbean and European cultural roots.


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