Happy TravellerWelcome to Nueva Gerona, the capital city of Isla de la Juventud special municipality and province in Cuba. With a population of 59,049, Nueva Gerona is a charming city known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and sporting culture. Let us take a tour of this hidden gem and discover all the amazing things it has to offer.
Nueva Gerona was founded in 1830 by Francisco Dionisio Vives, who was the Spanish governor of Cuba at the time. The city has a fascinating history and visitors can explore the American graveyard, a testament to the American presence on the island. The suburban quarter of Chacón houses the Presidio Modelo, a former prison that now serves as a museum.
Nueva Gerona is located on the coast, between the hills of Caballos and Casas. The city is divided into seven repartos, each with its unique charm. The river Río Las Casas, which runs through the city, provides a navigable waterway to the Caribbean Sea. The Rafael Cabrera Mustelier Airport is located near the suburban quarter named José Martí.
Nueva Gerona is linked to La Fe, the second most populated town on the island, by a 15 km-long expressway. The harbor in Río Las Casas estuary provides a link to the Cuban mainland, at the port of Surgidero de Batabanó. The city is a popular destination for sports enthusiasts, with professional baseball and football clubs representing Isla de la Juventud based in Nueva Gerona. Visitors can catch a game at the Estadio Cristóbal Labra and watch the Piratas de La Isla de La Juventud baseball club in action or check out FC Isla de La Juventud playing in the top football division, the Campeonato Nacional de Fútbol de Cuba.
Nueva Gerona has a sister city, Girona, in Spain. Visitors to Nueva Gerona can also explore the nearby Cayo Largo, a popular tourist destination. Nueva Gerona may have been hit by the 1917 hurricane, but it has since recovered and is now a thriving city with plenty to offer visitors.
Come and discover the charms of Nueva Gerona, a city that is sure to captivate and inspire you.
