Cubanos celebran aniversario de La Habana

Every year, hundreds of Cubans gather at a temple in central La Habana to participate in a pilgrimage around a ceiba tree, a tradition that dates back to the city's founding in 1519. This ceiba is the latest in a line of trees that have stood at the site since La Habana was part of the Spanish Empire. The city later became a key colonial trade center. Locals have maintained the tradition of visiting the tree annually for nearly five centuries. Participants walk around the tree three times counterclockwise, touching the trunk while making wishes. The ritual is seen as a way to connect with the origins of the Cuban nation.

What is the main reason Cubans visit the temple in Havana every year?

• To celebrate a national holiday

• To make wishes at the ceiba tree

• To attend a religious ceremony

• To participate in a festival

In what year was the city of Havana founded?

• 1492

• 1607

• 1804

• 1519

What role did Havana play in the Spanish Empire?

• A small fishing village

• A religious hub

• A major trade center

• A military outpost

How do visitors interact with the ceiba tree during their visit?

• They plant flowers near it

• They light candles around it

• They walk around it three times

• They sing songs to it

What is one of the personal wishes mentioned by a visitor?

• To win a lottery

• To find a new job

• To have good health

• To travel the world