Bayamo, October 18 (RHC-PL), -- The 20th 'Fiesta de la Cubanía' began Friday in Bayamo, which is considered the cradle of Cuban culture because the national anthem was sung here for the first time in history.

This celebration honors the Cuban identity through its songs, dances and various art forms, with tributes to personalities like the renowned musician Juan Formell (1942-2014).

In fact, the famous Wax Museum in Bayamo will present a statue of Formell, founder of the legendary band Los Van Van and creator of rhythms such as "shangüí-shake", who passed away last May.

In addition, Los Van Van will give a concert on the Day of Cuban Culture, 20 October, yhe day when the national anthem composed by Pedro Figueredo was first sung in 1868.

Local authorities aim to make the 'Fiesta de la Cubanía' a higher ranking event in the cultural scene of Cuba, due to the role of culture in forging the nationality.

The celebration began with the itinerant socio-cultural community project "Guerrilla de Teatreros", which performs its music, dance, theater, magic and other arts in rural setting sites.

The novelties of this Fiesta include the public display of "Ídolo de Bayamo", an aboriginal piece found in 1848 which will be first displayed in Bayamo, the National Monument City.