Cuba is a land of living traditions, where spirituality and culture intertwine in vibrant expressions of heritage. For visitors seeking to uncover unique ancient rituals and captivating customs, three traditions stand out as deeply emblematic of the island’s soul. Each November, the ceiba tree at El Templete in Havana becomes the focal point of a silent, reflective walk, honoring the city’s foundation and invoking blessings for the future. Equally mesmerizing are the sacred rhythms of the Batá drums, whose powerful beats echo through Afro-Cuban ceremonies, linking the present to the island’s Yoruba roots. Adding to this rich cultural tapestry, the Habana Compás Dance Company fuses Latin and African influences through electrifying performances that blend percussion, music, and movement. Together, these traditions offer an unforgettable glimpse into Cuba’s diverse and timeless cultural legacy.
El Templete – Founding Day celebrations
The annual tradition of walking around the ceiba tree at El Templete in Havana has been practiced for more than a century and is tied to the city’s origins. While the original ceiba tree from 1519 no longer exists, its replacements have carried on this custom, making it a cherished part of Havana’s identity and a key event during its Founding Day celebrations.
Locals and tourists gather to participate in the tradition of walking around the ceiba tree three times while making a wish and tossing a coin for good luck and prosperity. This symbolic act honors Havana’s heritage and brings hope for the future. Coins are collected and used for charitable causes, adding a community spirit to the event.
The ceiba tree has special cultural and spiritual significance in Cuba, especially in Afro-Cuban traditions, where it’s seen as sacred. The current tree is a replacement for earlier ones, but it continues to hold a deep connection to Havana’s history.
The ritual began to honor this historic event, and over time, it blended with cultural and spiritual beliefs. The ceiba tree holds great symbolic importance in both Afro-Cuban religions and Cuban culture. In Afro-Cuban traditions, the ceiba is considered a sacred tree associated with strength, protection, and spiritual energy. This significance likely contributed to the tradition’s endurance and evolution.
The Batá Drums: The Sacred Pulse of Afro-Cuban Culture
The Batá drums are not just instruments, but sacred tools deeply rooted in Cuba’s Afro-Cuban heritage. Originating from the Yoruba people of West Africa, these drums are central to Santería, an Afro-Cuban religion blending Yoruba spirituality with Catholicism. The three Batá drums—Iyá, Itótele, and Okónkolo—produce distinct rhythms, each dedicated to a different orisha (deity), facilitating communication between the divine and devotees during ceremonies like the Toque de Santo.
Beyond their religious role, Batá drumming has shaped popular Cuban music, including rumba and jazz, serving as a testament to the resilience of Afro-Cuban traditions. To experience Batá drumming in its cultural and spiritual context, visit neighborhoods like Regla and Guanabacoa in Havana, or Santiago de Cuba, where Yoruba traditions thrive. Festivals like Santiago’s Carnival and Havana’s Fiesta del Tambor showcase the rhythmic power of Batá drums, offering a deeper connection to Cuba’s rich heritage.
For a deeper and more respectful experience, our guide provides insights into the spiritual significance of the drumming and rituals. Whether in religious ceremonies or cultural performances, the Batá drums serve as a powerful connection to Cuba’s Afro-Cuban heritage, preserving the enduring legacy of the Yoruba people.
Experience the Soul of Cuba Through Dance and Rhythm
One of the standout moments of our Jewish heritage visit to Havana, Cuba, was the unforgettable experience of the Habana Compas Dance Company. Founded in 2004, this exceptional group masterfully blends Latin and African influences, creating a dynamic fusion of percussion, music, and dance. Their performances captivate with electrifying energy, rhythmic precision, and vibrant cultural expression, featuring traditional African drums handcrafted by the company’s founder.
The group, composed of talented young dancers and percussionists, seamlessly integrates ballet, folklore, contemporary, and flamenco—a fusion of Spanish musical traditions. Their artistry and athleticism were undeniable as they executed intricate choreography while playing percussive beats on drums and even chairs. In 2017, Habana Compás won the audience popularity award on Bailando en Cuba, the Cuban equivalent of Dancing with the Stars, and has since toured internationally, performing in Turkey, France, South Korea, and the U.S.
Sitting just feet from the stage, we felt immersed in the performance as the dancers’ infectious energy captivated the audience. The show also included fascinating discussions on the evolution of African rhythms into Cuban dance music, enriching the experience with cultural depth. The artwork displayed alongside the performance further enhanced the atmosphere, making the event a feast for both the eyes and ears.
A special thanks to Miriam Levison for organizing this unforgettable experience as part of our itinerary. The electrifying fusion of hip-hop, urban dance, and traditional Hispanic rhythms, paired with the innovative use of percussion, made this performance an absolute highlight of our journey. The intimate setting allowed us to not only witness the artistry up close but also to feel the raw energy and passion of the performers. Their rhythm was contagious, drawing us into the heart of Cuba’s vibrant cultural expression. When you embark on your next adventure with Jewish Heritage Travel, this mesmerizing performance is one you won’t want to miss!
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Story by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide and New York Jewish Guide.
This unforgettable journey was graciously hosted by The Jewish Heritage Travel, with heartfelt thanks to Luis Arteaga and Miriam Levinson for organizing such a remarkable and unique experience.
A special thanks to Vickie Prince for her knowledgeable and engaging guiding, bringing Havana’s hidden gems and history to life with her insights and enthusiasm.
For details on upcoming trips and to request a travel brochure, contact The Jewish Heritage Travel at https://jhtravel.org/ or call 1.845.256.0197.
