Pico San Juan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pico San Juan |
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 Pico San Juan
Location in Cuba
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,140 m (3,740 ft) |
| Prominence | 500 m (1,600 ft) |
| Listing |
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| Naming | |
| English translation | San Juan Peak |
| Language of name | Spanish |
| Geography | |
| Location | Cuba |
| Parent range | Escambray Mountains |
Pico San Juan is the tallest mountain in central Cuba. It stands 1,140 meters (about 3,740 feet) above the sea. It's a very important peak in the Escambray Mountains.
Contents
Exploring Pico San Juan
Where is Pico San Juan?
Pico San Juan is found in a part of Cuba called Cumanayagua. This area is in the Cienfuegos Province. The mountain is part of the Escambray Mountains. This mountain range is also known as "Guamuhaya." It is the biggest mountain range in central Cuba. The peak rises above many rivers, green forests, and deep valleys.
The Mountain's Changing Height
Pico San Juan used to be 1,142 meters tall. But in the 1980s, two meters were removed from its top. This was done to make space for a special weather radar. This radar is still there today. At the very top of the mountain, you can also see a statue. It is a bust of a famous Cuban cave explorer, Antonio Núñez Jiménez.
A Look at History
Early Battles in the Mountains
The Escambray Mountains, part of the "Guamuhaya" Massif, have a long history. In the 1500s, local Cuban people fought against Spanish conquistadors here. These were small but important battles.
Fighting for Independence
Later, in the late 1800s, the mountains became a safe place. They were a refuge for the Mambises. These were Cuban fighters who bravely fought for Cuba's freedom from Spain. This fight lasted from 1868 to 1898.
Modern Struggles
The mountains were also a key location in the 1950s and 1960s. Different groups fought against the army of General Fulgencio Batista. These groups included the 26th of July Movement and the Directorio Revolucionario Estudiantil. After Batista's fall, the mountains saw more conflict during the Escambray rebellion (1960-1965).
See also
In Spanish: Pico San Juan para niños
