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The influence of Cuba on life in Torrevieja is clearly noticeable. This is mainly due to the heyday of the salt industry in the 19th century. In the years 1844 and 1845, no fewer than 772 ships loaded with salt made the crossing to the Caribbean. Cuba was the most popular destination. The return journeys mainly carried wood, sugar and coffee. But the strong bond between the island and the city of Torrevieja is mainly due to the habanera music that the sailors heard in Cuba and introduced to the city upon their return. The monument of the Coralistas is tangible proof of this lasting Cuban musical influence. On the Paseo Vistalegre near the tourist office, this work of art is both a beautiful eye-catcher and a tribute to habanera music. Several people see the contours of a cathedral in the monument. Whether this is what the artist intended is questionable, but it is an understandable interpretation. The long 'bench' around the monument is also very functional. It is a rewarding place to quietly look out over the harbour area at the starting point of the long boulevard.
It is easy to understand that the habanera music made such a deep impression on overseas visitors. The relatively slow music form, born in Cuba, has rhythmic elements that have influenced jazz, tango, samba and popular and classical music, for example.
The musical richness of the music is emphasised annually during the international Habaneras festival in Torrevieja. In 2025, the 71st edition will be held with acts from various countries.
The fact that Torrevieja continues to cherish the link with Cuban music is also evident from the fact that the large shopping centre on the edge of the city bears the name Habaneras.
