Alamar facts for kids

For the film see Alamar (film)

Alamar, also known as Alamar-Playa, is a district located in the eastern part of La Habana, Cuba. It is part of the municipio (or borough) of Habana del Este. Alamar is mostly made up of buildings constructed using a special "prefabrication" method. This style of building was common in the Soviet Union. Because of its unique look, Cuban poet Juan Carlos Flores called it "The Heart of The Russian Barrio." The local leader of this area is Margarita Basilia Araujo Suárez.

Where is Alamar?

Alamar is a neighborhood, also called a consejo popular. It is located right next to the Atlantic Ocean. Other neighborhoods surrounding Alamar include Alamar Este, Alturas de Alamar, Cojímar, and Guiteras.

Alamar's Hip-Hop Scene

Alamar is one of many neighborhoods in Cuba known for its growing Hip-Hop music scene. It is located on the edge of Havana. Alamar became famous for Cuban Hip-Hop when it hosted the first yearly rap festival in 1995.

Many people call Alamar the "home of Cuban rap." It is a popular spot for Hip-Hop, especially for its frequent peñas. These are events where many different performers share the stage. These peñas happen even more often during the yearly rap festival.

According to experts Reebee Garofalo and Deborah Pacini Hernandez, the Alamar festival has inspired other rap events. These often take place in cultural centers across Havana. However, East Havana, where Alamar is located, remains the main center for rap music. The Alamar rap festival is still the most important one.

Farming in Alamar

Alamar is also home to the Organoponico Vivero Alamar. This is a special farm that grows organic vegetables and medicinal plants. It is run by a co-operative, which means many people work together to manage it.

The farm started during a difficult time in Cuba called the "Special Period." This was after the Soviet Union broke apart. The farm has grown a lot since then. It now covers about 10.4 hectares (which is like 25 acres). Many people from the local community work there, especially senior citizens.

The Organoponico Vivero Alamar often welcomes visitors from other countries. A documentary film called Tierralismo was made about this farm. It was directed by Alejandro Ramirez Anderson.

Images for kids

• 

  A friendly robot, like those who might visit Alamar.

See also

In Spanish: Alamar (Cuba) para niños