According to theorists and historians, the original piece was found in 1860, by a Spanish officer, on one of the elevations that surround this city.
Later it was learned that it was an artifact used in their ceremonies and rituals by the aboriginal agro-potter groups that inhabited the island of Cuba and specifically this eastern territory, upon the arrival of the Spanish in the 15th century.
The unique work represents an anthropomorphic male figure with a diadem on top and arms placed on the chest and has a stamp printed on it that distinguishes it from those of its type.
Research states that the original ax was 350 millimeters long, 76 millimeters wide and 48 millimeters thick, and was made of olive green peridotite stone.
Because it constitutes a jewel of the Taíno culture, of high artistic and heritage value, it was established as an official symbol of the province on May 28, 1981 by resolution of the Provincial Assembly of People’s Power of Holguín.
Hence, at the inauguration of each May Pilgrimage, a large-scale reproduction of this emblem of the people of Holguín, approximately one meter wide by three meters long, is built using paper mache on wire rod by students from the Academy of Arts. Plastics The ALBA.
That day, on the shoulders of the youth, they ascend the Loma de la Cruz, just as the friar Antonio Joseph Alegre did more than 200 years ago.
That ascent became a procession and religious festival, which over time transcended to become popular.
The people traditionally went to the Loma de la Cruz, some attracted by religious beliefs, others to keep promises or to dance, drink and play, despite how difficult it was to ascend to the top.
After more than 20 years of construction and numerous festivals to raise funds, the 458 steps, an oratory made up of a small balcony-shaped square and the cross on top of a pedestal like an altar, were finally inaugurated in 1950.
The fort was also rebuilt and a rotunda was made.
30 years ago, the Hermanos Saíz Association (AHS) hosted the festival to, delving into its essence, decontextualize it and turn the city into a huge stage, on which poetry, dance, theater, music, audiovisual arts, literature and in general all artistic manifestations had their space and prominence, fundamentally young art.
On this closing day of the May Pilgrimage, the Ax of Holguín, accompanied by the Hymn of Joy, will once again parade through the streets of Holguín until it is placed at the top of 18 Plantas.
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