Botanical and archeological heritage in Cuba: the Cayo Blanco-Guasabacoa case study

Abstract

The Archeo-Cuba project, Archaeology and Environmental Sustainability, is an international cooperation initiative funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation under the program for the Promotion of Territorial Partnerships and Implementation of the 2030 Agenda. The project adopts a multidisciplinary and integrated approach to addressing climate change in Cuba, aligning with the goals of the 2030 Agenda, through a peer-to-peer training model involving both Italian and Cuban experts. This paper presents the analytical methods applied to the project's target sites, focusing on the interpretation of natural and botanical stratification alongside historical and archaeological layers. It also outlines key findings from both the botanical research and the planning activities carried out at one of the target sites: the Cayo Blanco area, located in Havana Bay. Furthermore, recognizing the value of botanical, natural, and historical-archaeological heritage as a driver of sustainable territorial development, the study proposes environmental conservation strategies based on Nature-Based Solutions to address both ecological and social challenges. All activities are aimed at the future enhancement and sustainable use of the site.