CojÃÂmar is a historic fishing village located in the municipality of Havana del Este, Cuba. Situated on the northern coast of the island, approximately 7 kilometers east of Havana, CojÃÂmar is known for its cultural significance, history, and natural environment. The town was the residence of the American author Ernest Hemingway, who lived there for a time and kept his fishing boat, the Pilar, in the town. CojÃÂmar's historical roots date back to Cuba's colonial period, and has played an important role in the maritime and cultural history of Havana.
The name CojÃÂmar is derived from the TaÃÂno language, the language of the indigenous people of Cuba. The name is believed to mean "entrance of water into fertile land," reflecting the town's geographical connection to the CojÃÂmar River and the surrounding fertile land areas that have supported agricultural activity for centuries.
CojÃÂmar is located on the northern coast of Cuba, along the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 7 kilometers east of the Cuban capital, Havana. It lies within the municipality of Havana del Este and is bordered by the CojÃÂmar River to the south and the coastline to the north. The region is characterized by a flat, coastal plain and features rocky, eroded limestone formations, with a number of dientes de perro (dog's teeth) rock formations created by the marine erosion process.
The CojÃÂmar River, which flows from the Havana to Matanzas plain, is a notable feature of the region. The river provides freshwater to the surrounding areas and has historically supported agriculture. The highest point in the area is Loma UrnÃÂa, located near educational institutions in the region.
The town's coastline is dotted with small coves, sandy beaches, and rocky outcroppings, which makes it a popular site for both locals and tourists. Its proximity to Havana has made it a key part of the capital's extended urban area.
CojÃÂmar experiences a tropical climate, with hot, humid conditions year-round. Temperatures rarely dip below 20 ðC (68 ðF) and can reach up to 30 ðC (86 ðF) during the summer months. Rainfall is most frequent from May to October, with September being the wettest month. The area receives around 1,400 mm (55 inches) of rainfall annually. The high humidity levels, which average around 80%, are influenced by its coastal location.
Hurricanes and tropical storms are a significant concern in CojÃÂmar, especially during the hurricane season from June to November. These events occasionally lead to flooding and damage along the coastline.
The settlement of CojÃÂmar dates back to the mid-16th century. In 1554, the Spanish colonial authorities established a permanent settlement in the area, which initially consisted of fishermen, sailors, and enslaved Africans. Due to its strategic location along the coast, the settlement soon became an important site for maritime activities.
In 1649, the construction of the CojÃÂmar Fortress was completed as part of a defensive effort against pirate attacks, which were a frequent occurrence along the Cuban coastline during the period. The fortress is often considered the formal founding point of the town, and it remains a historical landmark today. The completion of the fortress also marked the establishment of CojÃÂmar as a more recognized and fortified settlement.
The 19th century saw CojÃÂmar grow in prominence as a seaside resort for the upper classes of Havana. The discovery of mineral springs in the area led to the establishment of therapeutic baths, and the town became a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and medical treatments. The town also built key infrastructure, such as public baths and a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the patron saint of seafarers.
In 1879, CojÃÂmar began its annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, a tradition that continues today. The town's population grew steadily during this period, with more visitors coming from Havana to enjoy the town's peaceful coastal environment.
The early 20th century brought new developments to CojÃÂmar, including the opening of the Hotel Campoamor in 1907, which became a popular venue for Havana's elite. CojÃÂmar also saw the establishment of other resort-like properties, such as the Residencial Loma and the Quinta Pedralves.
However, by the mid-20th century, tourism to CojÃÂmar declined as larger and more modern resorts, particularly in Varadero, became more popular. Despite this, CojÃÂmar continued to attract visitors interested in its historical and cultural connections, particularly those related to its association with Hemingway.
After the Cuban Revolution in 1959, CojÃÂmar's role as a tourist destination faded, and the town became more integrated into the greater Havana metropolitan area. The construction of the VÃÂa Blanca highway in the 1940s provided easier access to other parts of Havana, which shifted some of the traffic away from CojÃÂmar. Despite these changes, the town remained a cultural hub, especially due to its connection to Ernest Hemingway.
Hemingway lived in CojÃÂmar for several years, and the town's La Terraza restaurant became a famous haunt for the writer. Hemingway's boat, the Pilar, was docked at CojÃÂmarâÂÂs marina, and he often sailed from the town for fishing expeditions. Today, Hemingway's legacy continues to attract visitors to CojÃÂmar, with many coming to learn about his time in the town and visit the locations that were significant in his life.
The population of CojÃÂmar has grown significantly over the years. The first documented census in 1879 recorded a population of 1,613 people. By the early 20th century, the population had grown considerably, with the 1943 census recording a population of 7,051. The most recent census in 2016 recorded a population of 21,102 residents, reflecting the continued urbanization and residential development in the area.
CojÃÂmar is part of the larger Havana del Este municipality and shares in the governance structure of the city of Havana. Local political activities focus on maintaining the town's historical and cultural heritage, as well as addressing issues such as coastal erosion, flooding, and urban development.
Transportation to and from CojÃÂmar has evolved over the years. The early 20th century saw the introduction of an electric train service that connected CojÃÂmar to the rest of Havana, facilitating tourism and commerce. This rail line was particularly important in the period when CojÃÂmar was a popular resort.
Today, CojÃÂmar is accessible by road, with the VÃÂa Blanca highway providing easy access to the rest of the city. The town is served by local buses and taxis.
The closest major airport is José MartàInternational Airport, located about 20 minutes away by car. CojÃÂmar is also accessible by ferry from nearby coastal areas.