Temperatures are uniform for most of the year in Santiago de Cuba, averaging highs in the 80s with August and September being the hottest months. May and October are considered the rainiest months.
The city was founded in 1514 by Spanish conquistadors. It served as a base for Spanish explorers. In 1959, Fidel Castro declared victory for the Cuban Revolution while in Santiago de Cuba.
The castle at San Pedro de la Roca is listed by the UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to UNESCO it is the best example in the world of Spanish military architecture based on Renaissance design.
Bacanao Park was listed by UNESCO in 1987 as a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve. It includes a large, volcanic rock, sculpture gardens and various museums.
Actor Desi Arnaz, singer Compay Segundo and Cuban National Poet Jose Marti have all called Santiago de Cuba home. Marti is buried in the Cementerio Santa Efigenia.
