San Pedro de la Roca, Cuba

Back in the 17^th Century, /Santiago de Cuba was subject to devastating pirate raids.

Swashbucklers and buccaneers would attack the prosperous townspeople, carrying off gold, rum, and slaves.  The San Pedro de la Roca Castle was built high up on this cliff to ward off these raiders, and it worked like a charm; once it was built, no pirate ever dared attack the city again.

Today, the castle provides some of the most stunning views over the Caribbean.  It also provides an opportunity for architecture aficionados to appreciate the unique Italian Renaissance design, which earned the castle an entry into the UNESCO World Heritage list.