Juan Carlos Finlay Barrés is identified as the wise man who conquered ignorance, benefactor of humanity, glory of medicine; among other epithets that make his name and leading figure transcend. His theory had a universal scope by saving humanity from a great scourge, managing to demonstrate the truth about the transmitting agent of the yellow fever, in addition to venturing into other aspects of medicine and science.

He was born in Puerto Príncipe, today Camagüey, on December 3th, 1833 in the house located in Cristo No. 5 between Pamela Fernández and Lugareño Street; building that in 2002 became a cultural institution of the Office of the Historian of Camagüey city.

This institution, inaugurated on December 2nd, has as its fundamental purpose for 18 years now, the dissemination of the life and work of this outstanding scientist, counting on specialized bibliography and projects towards that mission. Attractive spaces of the colonial house host events, workshops and conferences of various scientific centers of the territory and try to satisfy the needs and predilections of the general population, with preference for the elderly; exhibitions of the work and scientific results from various institutions in the province are also shown.

Projects aimed at improving the quality of life come together in this place: Tai Chi practices, Art therapy as a fast and effective modality for social rehabilitation and the Para Vivir Club, a characterized activity that brings together people with similar interests and encourages the exchange of experiences and stimulates human relationships. In addition to the above, with recommendations for a healthy life and useful tips for the whole family, the Macrobiotic Diet project and the Learning to live with Parkinson’s project.

Among the most popular and old projects of the House is that of “Knowing about useful parts of popular and traditional medicinal plants”, which leads to circles of interest and summer workshops with children and young people and at the same time encourages the creation of garden centers in schools and residential areas. People interested in animal protection and in the care and preservation of the environment also have an meeting once a month with the project The Dream of a Home.

Approaching the valuable property is also a date with history, and with the knowledge of a scientific paradigm, with a healthy lifestyle and the gradual formation of a profitable harmony with the surrounding environment.

Translated by: Aileen Álvarez García