Loma de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross)

This historic hill located north of the city of Holguin is one of the main symbols of the city and a must-see stop when visiting the city. You can climb to the top (261 m) via a 458-step staircase. It takes its name from a tall wooden cross at its summit. The first cross was erected in 1790, and from that moment the hill stopped being known as “Cerro Bayabo” to take its current name. The cross was replaced on May 3, 1950 after important restoration works. The third and current cross was erected during the nineties when the second cross was destroyed by lightning.

At the top you'll find a restaurant and bar and a belvedere with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The site is also a Christian pilgrimage stop, during the Romarias de Mayo (a religious/socio-cultural festival) , devotees climb the summit where a special mass is held on May 3. Loma de la Cruz was declared Historical Colonial Archaeological Monument of the island of Cuba.

How to get there:
Loma de la Cruz is a very popular stop in many excursions to Holguin City departing from the resort areas near Guardalavaca and Rafael Freyre, see our Excursions section for more details. If you prefer to get there on your own, transportation options include: renting a car, hiring a taxi, or taking the Holguin Bus Tour, see our Getting Around page for further information.

If you can, make the trip early in the morning for pristine light and cooler temperatures, or late in the day for glowing sunset pictures.

© Google Earth. Click or move your mouse pointer over the markers to view description. Click & Drag to change map area and see other points of interest in the region. Zoom in or out using the + and - buttons or your mouse's wheel.

Click the following links to view aerial images showing..

The location of all-inclusive resorts in Holguin

The location of tourist attractions and services

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