Matanzas Province

Matanzas is a province in the northwest of Cuba, east of the capital Havana. The capital of the same province has 151 624 inhabitants.

Geography

With just a few surveys Matanzas is relatively flat. This predestines the area for agricultural use. In the south of the province is the Zapata Peninsula, which consists mainly of mangrove swamps.

History

On September 17, 1628 Dutch privateer Piet Heyn attacked in the Bay of Matanzas, the Spanish silver fleet and captured treasures worth about 12 million guilders. The Capture of the immense amount of money had influence on the Eighty Years' War in favor of the Dutch.

The most well-known bay of Cuba, the Bahía de Cochinos ( Bay of Pigs ) - or as it is today common in Cuba the beach Playa de Girón - is also located in the province of Matanzas. Here, the US-backed invasion by Cuban exiles was started in Cuba in 1961. However, they failed miserably.

Economy

Economic mainstay of the province is agriculture, oil is separated promoted, but without taking a greater role. Tourism is also an important source of foreign exchange. This is particularly Varadero to mention. This place makes with the surrounding peninsula Hicacos one of the most important tourist resorts on the island with many all-inclusive hotels.

Flora and Fauna

In the province of many bird species, especially on the Zapata Peninsula. On a part of this peninsula is a national park, the Parque Nacional de Zapata was established.

Administrative divisions

The Matanzas province is subdivided into 14 municipios: