Cuba Pt 2

This week we are looking at Cuba’s national things.

The coat of arms of Cuba features a shield prominently displayed in front of a fasces crowned with a Phrygian cap. The shield is supported by an oak branch on one side and a laurel wreath on the other. This heraldic design, created by Miguel Teurbe Tolón in 1849, is the official symbol of Cuba.

The national bird of Cuba is the Cuban Trogon, also known as the Tocororo. This vibrant bird features a green back, a blue crest, a red belly and beak, and a white throat and chest. Its distinctive colours mirror those of the Cuban flag, which is why it was chosen as the national symbol. 

The national flower of Cuba is the white ginger lily, also known as the White Mariposa or Butterfly Jasmine. Its scientific name is Hedychium conarium. 

The national dish of Cuba is Ropa Vieja, which translates to "old clothes" in Spanish. It's a flavourful stew made from shredded beef, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and spices. The dish is often served with rice, black beans, and plantains. 

While Cuba doesn't have a single officially designated national drink, the Mojito and the Cuba Libre are widely recognized as its most iconic and popular cocktails. The Mojito, a blend of rum, mint, lime, and sugar, is a classic Cuban drink often associated with the country's hot weather and vibrant culture. The Cuba Libre, a simple mixture of rum and Coca-Cola, is another beloved beverage that symbolizes Cuba's struggle for independence and remains a symbol of Cuban identity. 

The national colours of Cuba are red, white, and blue. These colours are prominently featured on the Cuban flag, which consists of three blue stripes, two white stripes, and a red triangle with a white star. 

Symbolism of the Colours:

• Blue: Represents the country's maritime location and the ideals of its people.
• Red: Symbolizes the blood spilled by those who fought for Cuban independence.
• White: Represents the purity of the revolutionary cause. 
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The national sport of Cuba is baseball. While football (soccer) is also popular, baseball has a strong cultural significance and is considered the national sport. It was introduced in the 1860s from the United States and quickly became a beloved pastime.