Santiago de Cuba, July 25, (RHC), – Festivities for the half millennium of the founding of Santiago, began Friday with the artistic gala “Santiago de Cuba: 500 years of history and culture.”

The gala was attended by the second secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba, José Ramón Machado Ventura and the country's first vice president, Miguel Díaz-Canel.

The festive date coincides with another important commemoration, that of the 26th of July or Day of National Rebellion, which marks the anniversary of the assault on the Moncada barracks in Santiago de Cuba, led by Fidel Castro and his companions.

The celebrations for both historical dates will be broadcast live by the Cuban radio and TV network.