Pico Turquino facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pico Turquino |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,974 m (6,476 ft) |
| Prominence | 1,974 m (6,476 ft) |
| Listing |
|
| Naming | |
| English translation | Turquino Peak |
| Language of name | Spanish |
| Geography | |
 Pico Turquino
Location in Cuba
|
|
| Parent range | Sierra Maestra |
Pico Turquino is the highest mountain in Cuba. It stands tall in the southeastern part of the island. This impressive peak is part of the Sierra Maestra mountain range. It is located in the Santiago de Cuba Province.
Contents
What's in a Name?
The name Pico Turquino means "Turquino Peak." People believe the name comes from the Spanish word for "turquoise." This is because the mountain sometimes looks blue from far away. It's like a giant turquoise gem!
A Mountain's Story
Pico Turquino has a long history. It was first shown on a map in the late 1500s. A mapmaker named Geert de Kremer drew it.
First Climbers
The first person known to climb Pico Turquino was Fred W. Ramsden. He was a 20-year-old Englishman. He reached the top in 1860. Later, in 1915, a Swedish botanist named Erik Leonard Ekman climbed the mountain. He thought he was the first. But then, Ramsden's son shared a letter from his father. This letter proved Ramsden had climbed it much earlier.
A Special Monument
In 1953, a special statue was placed on the peak. It was a bust of José Martí. He was a very important Cuban hero. The statue was made by Jilma Madera. It was placed there to celebrate 100 years since Martí was born.
A Place for Revolutionaries
In 1957, Fidel Castro and his soldiers climbed Pico Turquino. They were part of a group fighting for change in Cuba. This mountain was very important to them. Che Guevara, who was a leader with Castro, said the mountain had an "almost mystical meaning." This was because it was the highest point in Cuba.
Protecting the Peak
Around Pico Turquino, there is a special place called Turquino National Park. This park helps protect the mountain and its natural surroundings. It covers a large area of about 229 square kilometers (88 square miles).
See Also
- Uvero
In Spanish: Pico Turquino para niños
