|
JOSONE PARK IN VARADERO
From green to blue
BY MIREYA CASTAÑEDA—Granma International staff
writer—
PHOTO: ALBERTO BORREGO
WHAT
place in Varadero sits on nine hectares of land
right in the middle of that beach resort, between
the so-called “southern sea” and the first avenue
and tunnel link with the desirable blue waters and
their white, powdery sand? Answer: Josone Park.
|
La Paz Lake
|
After many visits to Varadero, it may be confirmed
that Josone has not lost its splendor or its
enchanting atmosphere (it is attended by 133
workers).
The
fact that some 500,000 tourists visit the park every
year is one indication of its attractions. Many
appreciate its swimming pool (right by the ocean!)
and a 5-star area, La Estrella, once a casino.
Its
carefully-kept areas, always green, and its natural
lake, christened “La Paz” (Peace), are its
trademarks, perfect for a relaxed walk, jog, or bike
ride.
The
park and its name, Josone, have a simple history
that goes back to the 1930s, when Basque native José
Fermín Iturróz, then manager (1926-1956) of the
Arrechabala rum factory, bought the first piece of
land around the lake.
The
first house was built in 1938 and is today the Dante
Restaurant, specializing in – what more could one
ask? – Italian food. Subsequently, a mansion was
erected in the neoclassical style, where Iturróz and
his family resided, which is now the Retiro Josone
Restaurant, with Cuban and international cuisine.
A
typically Basque cabana, used by the main architect
of the project completed in 1946, has been dubbed
“La campana” (the bell).
From
the Josone a tunnel was built and under the first
avenue, originally leading to the beach and now to
the International Diving Center.
The
name Josone itself has a history that some consider
romantic, given that it comes from the first letters
of the names José and Onelia, the wealthy Basque’s
wife.
The
park is a “different” sort of spot on the famous
narrow peninsula, impossible for any tourist to skip
when visiting Varadero. |
