Guantanamo.- The Baldwin Locomotive and the All Saints Episcopal Church were honored with the Provincial Conservation and Restoration Awards, respectively, in a ceremony held on the International Monuments Day. This event took place in a venue rich in local historical significance, in which initiatives dedicated to preserving the province’s cultural heritage, were recognized.
In the Conservation category, the Baldwin Locomotive received recognition as an iconic symbol of industrial heritage and a defining feature of the region’s agricultural and sugarcane landscape. The award underscores the locomotive’s importance as a historical and economic landmark that shaped local transportation and commerce.
The Restoration Award was presented for the second consecutive year to the All Saints Episcopal Church. Constructed in 1910 in an eclectic architectural style, the church continues to serve its religious community while maintaining many original elements. This preservation highlights the meticulous and respectful restoration efforts that honor the building’s heritage value.
The ceremony was attended by key cultural officials and experts, including Yoelvys Labañino López, Provincial Director of Culture; Elio Omar Fuentes Caboverde, Provincial Deputy Director; Diego Bosch, Deputy Director of Artistic Education; Yanisleidis Blanco Gómez, Municipal Director of Culture; along with representatives from the Provincial Center for Cultural Heritage, Museums, and other institutions. Local cultural promoters and professionals also participated.
Artistic performances by violinist Sarbelio Matos Laborí, actor Ángel Bofil, and the Pompadour French Tumba Santa Catalina de Ricci enriched the program, providing a cultural backdrop that emphasized the celebration of both tangible and intangible heritage.
These awards aim to promote best practices in preventive conservation and sensitive restoration, raise public awareness, and ensure the continued protection of landmarks like the Baldwin Locomotive and the All Saints Episcopal Church, emblematic of the province’s rich historical legacy.
