www.ambientes.us SEPTEMBER / SEPTIEMBRE 2008
VIZCAYA VILLA AND GARDENS
3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida 33129 www.vizcayamuseum.org
Vizcaya was the winter residence of American industrialist James Deering from Christmas 1916 until his
death in 1925. Deering was a Vice President of the International Harvester Company, which produced
agricultural equipment for a worldwide market. He chose a bayfront site in Miami for his tropical winter home
because of the location’s temperate winter climate and his appreciation of the native hardwood hammock. In
addition, his father, William, had already settled in Coconut Grove and his half brother, Charles Deering,
would soon develop an estate at Cutler. The latter is now operated by the Miami-Dade County Park and
Recreation Department.
At the time of Vizcaya’s construction, Miami’s population was around 10,000. More than 1,000 workers were
employed in the Vizcaya project, including laborers and craftsmen from the Caribbean and Europe. In
addition to the house and gardens, the complex included a farm, livestock, and a variety of other service
facilities covering 180 acres on both sides of South Miami Avenue. Currently Vizcaya hosts the annual Care
Resource AIDS fundraiser – The White Party, every November.
When Deering began building his winter home, Deering engaged the assistance of Paul Chalfin, a young
New York painter, to supervise the entire project. Deering and Chalfin traveled throughout Europe surveying
residential architecture for ideas and obtaining components such as doors, wall panels, mantels and
ceilings that would be incorporated into the proposed home. Also working on the project were architect F.
Burrall Hoffman and Colombian landscape architect Diego Suarez.
The house was intended to appear as an Italian estate that had stood for 400 years and had been occupied
and renovated by several generations of a family. It has 34 decorated rooms of 15th through 19th century
antique furnishings and art objects. The house appears to be only two stories high but between the main
public rooms and the bedrooms, there is an intervening level with 12 rooms for servants and service. Vizcaya
intends to open these rooms to the public in the near future, thereby introducing new stories about those who
lived and worked at the house.
The expansive gardens combine elements of Renaissance Italian and French designs. Future programs will
place greater emphasis on interpreting and presenting these gardens. Suarez and Chalfin worked for seven
years, perfecting the design of the gardens as one vast outdoor room with the elements serving as
complementary parts of an integrated area. Key features include the many fountains, a central pool
surrounding an elevated island, the elevated Mound with its small house, or “Casino,” statuary, and several
themed gardens.
After Deering’s death in 1925, a minimal staff maintained the house. The hurricane of 1926, which
devastated much of Miami, extensively damaged the house, surrounding grounds and formal gardens.
Deering's heirs, Marion Deering McCormick and Barbara Deering Danielson, contacted the estate's original
designer, Paul Chalfin, who oversaw the first restoration of Vizcaya in 1933-4. The McCormicks and
Danielsons attempted to operate the estate as an attraction, but another major hurricane in 1935
overwhelmed their efforts. Eventually most of the land was sold for development. In 1952, Miami-Dade County
purchased the remaining complex for $1 million in revenue bonds. Deering's heirs donated the estate's
substantial furnishings and art to the County.
Over the years the effects of South Florida’s humid climate and salt air have taken their toll on Vizcaya,
necessitating continuous restoration. Although the house’s design allowed the free flow of breezes through
the open courtyard, the need to preserve the building and contents required the installation of a climate and
humidity control system, including enclosing the open courtyard in glass. Today we can only imagine how
Vizcaya felt as an open-air house, with the sounds of birds and the bay, the sudden rain showers, and the
fragrance of flowers.
Attend a Taping of the Cristina Show
Often referred to as the Spanish Oprah, Cuban-born CRISTINA
SARALEGUI is a 30-year veteran journalist who is recognized as
one of the most influential role models for today’s Hispanic
woman. She is strong-willed, successful, savvy and committed
to making a difference. In August 2005, CRISTINA was named
one of the “25 Most Influential Hispanics in America” by Time
Magazine. After 18 years on the air, “The Cristina Show” is one of
the highest rated programs on Spanish-language television. It is
also seen throughout Latin America as well as in most European
countries. To attend the taping of The Cristina Show, Call
305-471-4145 and ask for taping dates and times. Dolphin
Studios is located at: 2520 NW 112 Avenue, Miami Florida, 33172
El Palacio De Los Jugos
5721 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33144 305-264-8662
Housing a cross-section of Miami's Latin communities, this open-air bazaar attracts crowds looking to chow
down picnic-style, grab some fresh-squeezed juice or just pop in for a cafe con leche (weekends are
particularly crowded). There's almost always a line at the hot foods section, with folks waiting for their
tamales, rice and beans, or the mighty popular pan con lechon, a pork sandwich served up daily by the
hundreds. Juice varieties (by the glass or the gallon) are extensive -- try orange, pineapple, papaya or coconut
(served right in the shell), while fresh fruit salads include the tropical best -- mango, cantaloupe, watermelon
and more. Best of all, hard-to-find produce like anon and mamoncillo are everyday treats here. It's not
uncommon to find peddlers selling anything from toys and fresh fish to religious items.
Sabado Gigante Show
¿Cómo participar en Sábado Gigante? Si quieres ser parte de la
audiencia del show o participar en algunos de los segmentos, te
detallamos a continuación los números gratuitos de teléfonos y la
dirección de e-mail a la que te puedes comunicar. Los productores
del programa se pondrán en contacto contigo. Al escribir un email o
dejar un mensaje telefónico, especifica nombre y apellido, teléfono,
e-mail y segmento en el que quieres participar. Reserva tu asiento
y participa Tickets para el show: 1-800-345-7360/ 305-471-8262
Visit the World Erotic Art Museum in Miami Beach
For the past 13 years, Naomi Wilzig, has scoured markets and antique shops
from Paris to St. Petersburg to amass a 4,000-piece collection that includes Kama
Sutra temple carvings from India, peekaboo Victorian figurines who flash their
behinds and a prop from the sado-sexual thriller "A Clockwork Orange." This is a
must visit attraction on your visit to Miami! www.weam.com
Starlight Kayak Cruise Every Saturday Night in Miami
Ever seen Miami from the bay? Most haven’t, and it is an incredible experience!
Enjoy the beautiful Miami Skyline with the stars hanging above your head. This
kayak also begins with a guided kayak tour through the islands at sunset with a
final destination of Monument Island. Once on the island, you will enjoy a bon fire,
weenie roast, smores, beverages, music & more. Starlight Kayak - $40.00 - All
Inclusive Price.
Advanced Reservations and a Deposit is required for the Starlight Kayak.
www.southbeachkayak.com
Birdseye View of Miami
Metromover is a free automated people-mover system that serves downtown Miami from Omni to Brickell and
connects with Metrorail at Government Center and Brickell stations. There are 20 conveniently-located
wheelchair-accessible Metromover stations, one about every two blocks.
Metromover links many of downtown Miami's major office buildings, hotels, and retail centers, the Stephen P.
Clark Government Center, the Cultural Plaza (Miami Art Museum, Historical Museum, Main Library), and the
Brickell business district. With Metromover cars arriving frequently, getting around downtown is fast and
convenient. www.co.miami-dade.fl.us/transit/moverstations.asp
The Art Deco District, Nightclubs, palm trees, hot bodies, Calle Ocho, the
Dolphins, Shaq, Gloria, and of course, the beaches- this is what most
consider to be what Miami is all about, and it is… but this vibrant and diverse
city is about a lot more. Miami has many wonderful and enriching spots,
some very touristy and well known, and others tucked away for those who
seek them out. Here are some of this native Miamian’s favorite must see
places and spaces that we often overlook and miss …
OUR LADY OF CHARITY/ERMITA DE LA CARIDAD SHRINE
3609 S Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33133-4205
To many Cuban-Americans living in Miami, La Virgen
de la Caridad del Cobre, is one of the few remaining
ties that connects them with their homeland. The
Virgin is a renowned and integral part of Cuban
culture and plays an important role in the Catholic
heritage of Cubans exiled inside and outside of North
America. The shrine, La Ermita de la Caridad del
Cobre, is a memorial that was constructed in honor of
her and is a monument to the religious and political
history of the island. Our Lady of Charity is also
unique – as the only religious icon to be recognized
by the Catholic Church, with 2 official shrines – one
in Cuba and the other here in Miami.
Thirty-three years later, Cuban-exile devotion to Our
Lady of Charity remains rooted on the shores of Biscayne Bay, and her Miami shrine, lovingly called ``La
Ermita,'' has become a South Florida landmark. Built with donations from newly arrived exiles who gave 10
cents per family member to pay $420,000 in construction costs, La Ermita is a symbol of the Cuban-exile
soul.
More recently the shrine has undergone the most extensive renovation of its history. Money for the $800,000
expansion project was raised the same way it was back then -- with small donations from exiles, this time $1
per family member.
The myth behind the La Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre, originated in 1606. The Virgin appeared one day in
the Bay of Nipe near Santiago to two brothers, Rodrigo and Juan de Hoyos, and to Juan Moreno, a black boy
roughly ten years of age. They were out on a fishing trip in the Bay. While struggling in their storm tossed
boat, they heard a voice declare, "I am the Virgin of Charity." In one hand, the Virgin carried a mulatto baby
Jesus; in the other, she held a cross. She also appeared to be holding a tablet which contained the
inscription, "I am the Virgin of Charity." A replica of the same tablet is now framed and displayed on the first
floor of La Ermita in Santiago de Cuba.
In Cuba, there is also a statue of the Virgin, approximately one meter tall, located in a small chapel on the
second floor. The statue is of a pretty mulatta who wears dangling earrings and a golden robe. La Virgen's
racial attributes is a mixture of black, white and native Indian, essentially, covering the general racial makeup
of Cuba. She has dark hair and carries the baby Jesus in one hand and a cross in the other.
To the exiles, the Virgin and her shrine represent liberty and freedom. Many believe that she was the driving
force in bringing them to the United States and thus will he will remain an essential part of Cuba's religious
history and of the exile's life.
BACARDI U.S.A. HEADQUARTERS
2100 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33137 www.bacardi.com
Among the finest examples of blending art with architecture is the home of Bacardi USA, Inc. in Miami,
Florida: offices and museum, built by the Bacardi family, famous for Bacardi rum and other
accomplishments. The museum covers corporate and family history from 1862 through today.
Bacardi has long supported modern design; their most noteworthy buildings are two in Mexico and Bermuda,
buildings they proudly commissioned Mies van der Rohe to design in international modern style. The
Bermuda building was originally intended for Bacardi's first headquarters in Santiago, Cuba, but Castro's
revolution forced alteration of that plan.
Designed in 1963 by famed Puerto Rican architect Enrique Gutierrez with the firm Sacmag Intl., the main
building boasts a eight story pair of murals flanking its international MIMO style design, composed of 28,000
hand painted, glazed, 6” by 6” ceramic tiles, with a white marble border. The cobalt blue and white-hued, floral
design mural was created by Brazilian artist Francisco Brennand. Not to be outdone is the 1973 annex
building across the Brazilia-esque plaza, designed by Cuban-born architect Ignacio Carrera-Justiz. Wrapped
in four brightly colored glass murals made up of bricks manufactured in Chartres, France and designed by
German artist Johannes Dietz to depict the story of rum production, the annex is a two-story structure,
cantilevering 24 feet from a center core, rising to a 47 foot height. Be sure not to miss the Bacardi museum in
the main building’s lobby.
FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDENS
10901 Old Cutler Road in Coral Gables www.ftg.org
One of the world's preeminent botanic gardens, with
extensive collections of rare tropical plants including
palms, cycads, flowering trees and vines. Established in
1938, the 83-acre garden is among the region's most
popular visitor attractions and offers a variety of programs
in environmental education, conservation and horticulture.
An international leader in tropical plant research, Fairchild
Tropical Botanic Garden plays an important part in
preserving the biodiversity of the tropical environment.
David Fairchild (1869-1954) was one of the greatest plant
explorers of all time. At the age of 22, he created the Section of Foreign Seed and Plant Introduction of the
United States Department of Agriculture, and for the next 37 years, he traveled the world in search of plants of
potential use to the American people. His far-reaching travels brought into cultivation in the U.S. many
important plants, including mangos, alfalfa, nectarines, dates, horseradish, bamboos and flowering
cherries.
Dr. Fairchild retired to Miami in 1935, sharing his vast knowledge and experience in tropical plants with Col.
Robert H. Montgomery, who founded the botanical garden and named it to honor his friend. Many plants still
growing in the Garden were collected and planted by Dr. Fairchild, including a giant African baobab tree not
far from the entrance. In 1940 Dr. Fairchild embarked on the first official collecting expedition for FTBG, sailing
from the Philippines to the Indonesian archipelago on a special oceangoing Chinese junk called the Cheng
Ho. The voyage provided many of the early botanical specimens before the outbreak of World War II forced the
explorers to return home.
I.M. PEI TOWER- SKY LOBBY TERRACE
Designed by Pei Cobb Freed Partners, under the guidance of famed I.M. Pei, the wedding cake inspired
façade of this modern Miami landmark boasts 46 floors for a total 585 in height. Its curved layers and
horizontal banding reflects one of the cities first fully incorporated architectural lighting systems and a rooftop
heliport – seen in Gloria Estefan Turn The Beat Around video.
One of the best points of this landmark is its sky lobby, located on the rooftop of the first tier of the building
and housing a wonderful cafeteria that is open to the public and boasts great window views of downtown.
Venture out of the glass doors to a wonderful rooftop Garden of Eden, including a serene and expansive
reflecting pond, meticulously manicured tropical foliage and Miami’s most breathtaking views of downtown
Miami, looking south over the high-rises of Brickell Avenue, lush Coconut Grove and crystal blue Biscayne bay.
SPANISH MONASTERY
16711 West Dixie highway, North Miami Beach
www.spanishmonastery.com
How a Tenth Century Monastery came to South Florida
The Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was built in Sacramenia, in the
Province of Segovia, Spain, during the period 1133-1141. It was originally
dedicated in honor of the Blessed Mother and named the "Monastery of
Our Lady, Queen of the Angels." Upon the canonization of the famous
Cistercian Monk, Bernard of Clairvaux, a leading influence in the Church
during that period, the Monastery was renamed in his honor. Cistercian
monks occupied the monastery for nearly 700 years. The cloisters were
seized, sold, and converted into a granary and stable due to a social
revolution in that area in the mid 1830's.
In 1925 William Randolph Hearst purchased the Cloisters and the
Monastery's outbuildings. The structures were dismantled stone by stone,
bound with protective hay, packed in some 11,000 wooden crates,
numbered for identification and shipped to the United States. About that
time, hoof and mouth disease had broken out in Segovia, and the U.S.
Department of Agriculture, fearing possible contagion, quarantined the shipment upon its arrival, broke open
the crates and burned the hay, a possible carrier of the disease. Unfortunately, the workmen failed to replace
the stones in the same numbered boxes before moving them to a warehouse. Soon after the shipment
arrived, Hearst's financial problems forced most of his collection to be sold at auction. The stones remained
in a warehouse in Brooklyn, New York, for 26 years. One year after Hearts' death in 1952, they were
purchased by Messrs. W. Edgemon and R. Moss for use as a tourist attraction. It took 19 months and almost
$1.5 million dollars to put the Monastery back together. Some of the unmatched stones still remain in the
back lot; others were used in the construction of the present Church's Parish Hall.
St Bernard's Church, as we know it today, started out not on these grounds but at a savings and loan building
on N.E. 167th Street. Its name at that time was "The Mission of St. John the Divine," and services were held at
that location for approximately one year under the leadership of Rev. Harold L. Batchelor (1963-64). The
Mission of St. John the Divine became the Church of St. Bernard de Clairvaux, named in honor of the great
Saint who had been a leading influence among the Cistercians 847 years ago, and whose feast day is
commemorated on August 20.
In 1964, Bishop Henry Louttit purchased the property for the Diocese of South Florida, later to become the
Dioceses of Central, Southeast and Southwest Florida. Shortly thereafter, when the three dioceses ran into
financial difficulties, the Monastery was put up for sale and the parishioners of St. Bernard feared a second
move. During the Bishopric of the Rt. Rev. James Duncan, Col. Robert Pentland, JR, a multimillionaire
banker, philanthropist and benefactor of many Episcopal churches, purchased the Cloisters and presented
them to the parish of St. Bernard de Clairvaux.
BOTANICA NENA
902 N.W. 27th Ave., Miami, FL, USA 305-649-8078
Botanica Nena is the largest and most complete botanica (a store
specializing in the occult) in Miami, stocking roots, herbs, seashells,
candles, incense, and potions of all sorts associated with the Santeria
religion. Its non-conventional subject matter and inner city location
make this shop ideal for the respectful and adventurous.
Santeria is not an archaic religion. It is a vibrant force with five hundred
years of continuous history in the Western Hemisphere. Its African
roots go back at least as far as Christianity's.
Santeria is syncretic religon that combines elements of African and
Catholic beliefs. Brought with slaves from the West Coast of Africa,
this belief system is still widely practiced in Cuba and among select groups in Miami. Botanica shops cater
to a variety of individuals who practice this traditional religion.
Santeria has millions of followers spread across the United States, the Caribbean, Central, and South
America. There is Voodoo in Haiti, Macumba in Brazil and Candomble in the Northern coasts of South
America. Its adherents come from all walks o f life; doctors, lawyers, politicians, thieves and pimps. All those
who seek the power to control their own lives and want to lead them in accord with the deepest parts of their
beings are candidates for initiation into Santeria. As the traditional belief systems of the Western world cease
to provide a direct emotional involvement with the mysteries of life, more and more people are turning to the
throbbing of the Santeria drums. It is a religion of trance, mystery, possession, blood and sex. What follows is
a brief glimpse into Santeria. If you want to know more, go to the ceremonies, burn the candles and dance to
the drums. Skin color or language are no barriers. The ancient gods will recognize their own.
CUBAN MEMORIAL BOULEVARD AND STARS WALK OF FAME
Cuban Memorial Boulevard located on 13th Avenue, between
Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) and Coral Way (SW 24th street).
The Boulevard is a parkway on which can be found a series of
monuments commemorating the history and culture of Cuba.
The Walk of Fame celebrates the accomplishments of major
Cuban cultural and artistic figures, as well as the activities of
organizations such as Ballet Concerto. The Hollywood Walk of
Fame is known worldwide and is a major tourist attraction.
Javier Soto wanted Miami to have a similar Walk of Fame in
which Latin stars would be recognized. His dream came true
on March 2, 1989, when Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound
Machine received the first star on the Latin Star Walk.
However, this did not happen overnight. Forming a company,
developing the idea, and getting the support and permission
of local government organizations took time and became a long and drawn out process. It all started when
Soto, a publicist, and his wife, Sara, an operator with ITT, formed the company called Latin Stars, Inc., in
1988. The purpose was to obtain the sidewalks in Little Havana between 12th and 17th avenue on Calle
Ocho, the main street in Little Havana, to be reserved for the stars.
The idea came about when Celia Cruz, the Cuban salsa queen, received a star in 1987 on the Hollywood
Walk of Fame. The Sotos were proud of her accomplishment, but they realized that many Latin celebrities
would never be recognized in Hollywood. Since the start of the "Calle Ocho Walk of Fame" in 1988, more than
20 celebrities have been honored by receiving stars.
Copyright © Herb Sosa & AMBIENTE MAGAZINE. Do not reproduce without citing these sources.
VIZCAYA VILLA AND GARDENS
3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida 33129 www.vizcayamuseum.org
Vizcaya was the winter residence of American industrialist James Deering from Christmas 1916 until his
death in 1925. Deering was a Vice President of the International Harvester Company, which produced
agricultural equipment for a worldwide market. He chose a bayfront site in Miami for his tropical winter home
because of the location’s temperate winter climate and his appreciation of the native hardwood hammock. In
addition, his father, William, had already settled in Coconut Grove and his half brother, Charles Deering,
would soon develop an estate at Cutler. The latter is now operated by the Miami-Dade County Park and
Recreation Department.
At the time of Vizcaya’s construction, Miami’s population was around 10,000. More than 1,000 workers were
employed in the Vizcaya project, including laborers and craftsmen from the Caribbean and Europe. In
addition to the house and gardens, the complex included a farm, livestock, and a variety of other service
facilities covering 180 acres on both sides of South Miami Avenue. Currently Vizcaya hosts the annual Care
Resource AIDS fundraiser – The White Party, every November.
When Deering began building his winter home, Deering engaged the assistance of Paul Chalfin, a young
New York painter, to supervise the entire project. Deering and Chalfin traveled throughout Europe surveying
residential architecture for ideas and obtaining components such as doors, wall panels, mantels and
ceilings that would be incorporated into the proposed home. Also working on the project were architect F.
Burrall Hoffman and Colombian landscape architect Diego Suarez.
The house was intended to appear as an Italian estate that had stood for 400 years and had been occupied
and renovated by several generations of a family. It has 34 decorated rooms of 15th through 19th century
antique furnishings and art objects. The house appears to be only two stories high but between the main
public rooms and the bedrooms, there is an intervening level with 12 rooms for servants and service. Vizcaya
intends to open these rooms to the public in the near future, thereby introducing new stories about those who
lived and worked at the house.
The expansive gardens combine elements of Renaissance Italian and French designs. Future programs will
place greater emphasis on interpreting and presenting these gardens. Suarez and Chalfin worked for seven
years, perfecting the design of the gardens as one vast outdoor room with the elements serving as
complementary parts of an integrated area. Key features include the many fountains, a central pool
surrounding an elevated island, the elevated Mound with its small house, or “Casino,” statuary, and several
themed gardens.
After Deering’s death in 1925, a minimal staff maintained the house. The hurricane of 1926, which
devastated much of Miami, extensively damaged the house, surrounding grounds and formal gardens.
Deering's heirs, Marion Deering McCormick and Barbara Deering Danielson, contacted the estate's original
designer, Paul Chalfin, who oversaw the first restoration of Vizcaya in 1933-4. The McCormicks and
Danielsons attempted to operate the estate as an attraction, but another major hurricane in 1935
overwhelmed their efforts. Eventually most of the land was sold for development. In 1952, Miami-Dade County
purchased the remaining complex for $1 million in revenue bonds. Deering's heirs donated the estate's
substantial furnishings and art to the County.
Over the years the effects of South Florida’s humid climate and salt air have taken their toll on Vizcaya,
necessitating continuous restoration. Although the house’s design allowed the free flow of breezes through
the open courtyard, the need to preserve the building and contents required the installation of a climate and
humidity control system, including enclosing the open courtyard in glass. Today we can only imagine how
Vizcaya felt as an open-air house, with the sounds of birds and the bay, the sudden rain showers, and the
fragrance of flowers.
Attend a Taping of the Cristina Show
Often referred to as the Spanish Oprah, Cuban-born CRISTINA
SARALEGUI is a 30-year veteran journalist who is recognized as
one of the most influential role models for today’s Hispanic
woman. She is strong-willed, successful, savvy and committed
to making a difference. In August 2005, CRISTINA was named
one of the “25 Most Influential Hispanics in America” by Time
Magazine. After 18 years on the air, “The Cristina Show” is one of
the highest rated programs on Spanish-language television. It is
also seen throughout Latin America as well as in most European
countries. To attend the taping of The Cristina Show, Call
305-471-4145 and ask for taping dates and times. Dolphin
Studios is located at: 2520 NW 112 Avenue, Miami Florida, 33172
El Palacio De Los Jugos
5721 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33144 305-264-8662
Housing a cross-section of Miami's Latin communities, this open-air bazaar attracts crowds looking to chow
down picnic-style, grab some fresh-squeezed juice or just pop in for a cafe con leche (weekends are
particularly crowded). There's almost always a line at the hot foods section, with folks waiting for their
tamales, rice and beans, or the mighty popular pan con lechon, a pork sandwich served up daily by the
hundreds. Juice varieties (by the glass or the gallon) are extensive -- try orange, pineapple, papaya or coconut
(served right in the shell), while fresh fruit salads include the tropical best -- mango, cantaloupe, watermelon
and more. Best of all, hard-to-find produce like anon and mamoncillo are everyday treats here. It's not
uncommon to find peddlers selling anything from toys and fresh fish to religious items.
Sabado Gigante Show
¿Cómo participar en Sábado Gigante? Si quieres ser parte de la
audiencia del show o participar en algunos de los segmentos, te
detallamos a continuación los números gratuitos de teléfonos y la
dirección de e-mail a la que te puedes comunicar. Los productores
del programa se pondrán en contacto contigo. Al escribir un email o
dejar un mensaje telefónico, especifica nombre y apellido, teléfono,
e-mail y segmento en el que quieres participar. Reserva tu asiento
y participa Tickets para el show: 1-800-345-7360/ 305-471-8262
Visit the World Erotic Art Museum in Miami Beach
For the past 13 years, Naomi Wilzig, has scoured markets and antique shops
from Paris to St. Petersburg to amass a 4,000-piece collection that includes Kama
Sutra temple carvings from India, peekaboo Victorian figurines who flash their
behinds and a prop from the sado-sexual thriller "A Clockwork Orange." This is a
must visit attraction on your visit to Miami! www.weam.com
Starlight Kayak Cruise Every Saturday Night in Miami
Ever seen Miami from the bay? Most haven’t, and it is an incredible experience!
Enjoy the beautiful Miami Skyline with the stars hanging above your head. This
kayak also begins with a guided kayak tour through the islands at sunset with a
final destination of Monument Island. Once on the island, you will enjoy a bon fire,
weenie roast, smores, beverages, music & more. Starlight Kayak - $40.00 - All
Inclusive Price.
Advanced Reservations and a Deposit is required for the Starlight Kayak.
www.southbeachkayak.com
Birdseye View of Miami
Metromover is a free automated people-mover system that serves downtown Miami from Omni to Brickell and
connects with Metrorail at Government Center and Brickell stations. There are 20 conveniently-located
wheelchair-accessible Metromover stations, one about every two blocks.
Metromover links many of downtown Miami's major office buildings, hotels, and retail centers, the Stephen P.
Clark Government Center, the Cultural Plaza (Miami Art Museum, Historical Museum, Main Library), and the
Brickell business district. With Metromover cars arriving frequently, getting around downtown is fast and
convenient. www.co.miami-dade.fl.us/transit/moverstations.asp
The Art Deco District, Nightclubs, palm trees, hot bodies, Calle Ocho, the
Dolphins, Shaq, Gloria, and of course, the beaches- this is what most
consider to be what Miami is all about, and it is… but this vibrant and diverse
city is about a lot more. Miami has many wonderful and enriching spots,
some very touristy and well known, and others tucked away for those who
seek them out. Here are some of this native Miamian’s favorite must see
places and spaces that we often overlook and miss …
OUR LADY OF CHARITY/ERMITA DE LA CARIDAD SHRINE
3609 S Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33133-4205
To many Cuban-Americans living in Miami, La Virgen
de la Caridad del Cobre, is one of the few remaining
ties that connects them with their homeland. The
Virgin is a renowned and integral part of Cuban
culture and plays an important role in the Catholic
heritage of Cubans exiled inside and outside of North
America. The shrine, La Ermita de la Caridad del
Cobre, is a memorial that was constructed in honor of
her and is a monument to the religious and political
history of the island. Our Lady of Charity is also
unique – as the only religious icon to be recognized
by the Catholic Church, with 2 official shrines – one
in Cuba and the other here in Miami.
Thirty-three years later, Cuban-exile devotion to Our
Lady of Charity remains rooted on the shores of Biscayne Bay, and her Miami shrine, lovingly called ``La
Ermita,'' has become a South Florida landmark. Built with donations from newly arrived exiles who gave 10
cents per family member to pay $420,000 in construction costs, La Ermita is a symbol of the Cuban-exile
soul.
More recently the shrine has undergone the most extensive renovation of its history. Money for the $800,000
expansion project was raised the same way it was back then -- with small donations from exiles, this time $1
per family member.
The myth behind the La Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre, originated in 1606. The Virgin appeared one day in
the Bay of Nipe near Santiago to two brothers, Rodrigo and Juan de Hoyos, and to Juan Moreno, a black boy
roughly ten years of age. They were out on a fishing trip in the Bay. While struggling in their storm tossed
boat, they heard a voice declare, "I am the Virgin of Charity." In one hand, the Virgin carried a mulatto baby
Jesus; in the other, she held a cross. She also appeared to be holding a tablet which contained the
inscription, "I am the Virgin of Charity." A replica of the same tablet is now framed and displayed on the first
floor of La Ermita in Santiago de Cuba.
In Cuba, there is also a statue of the Virgin, approximately one meter tall, located in a small chapel on the
second floor. The statue is of a pretty mulatta who wears dangling earrings and a golden robe. La Virgen's
racial attributes is a mixture of black, white and native Indian, essentially, covering the general racial makeup
of Cuba. She has dark hair and carries the baby Jesus in one hand and a cross in the other.
To the exiles, the Virgin and her shrine represent liberty and freedom. Many believe that she was the driving
force in bringing them to the United States and thus will he will remain an essential part of Cuba's religious
history and of the exile's life.
BACARDI U.S.A. HEADQUARTERS
2100 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33137 www.bacardi.com
Among the finest examples of blending art with architecture is the home of Bacardi USA, Inc. in Miami,
Florida: offices and museum, built by the Bacardi family, famous for Bacardi rum and other
accomplishments. The museum covers corporate and family history from 1862 through today.
Bacardi has long supported modern design; their most noteworthy buildings are two in Mexico and Bermuda,
buildings they proudly commissioned Mies van der Rohe to design in international modern style. The
Bermuda building was originally intended for Bacardi's first headquarters in Santiago, Cuba, but Castro's
revolution forced alteration of that plan.
Designed in 1963 by famed Puerto Rican architect Enrique Gutierrez with the firm Sacmag Intl., the main
building boasts a eight story pair of murals flanking its international MIMO style design, composed of 28,000
hand painted, glazed, 6” by 6” ceramic tiles, with a white marble border. The cobalt blue and white-hued, floral
design mural was created by Brazilian artist Francisco Brennand. Not to be outdone is the 1973 annex
building across the Brazilia-esque plaza, designed by Cuban-born architect Ignacio Carrera-Justiz. Wrapped
in four brightly colored glass murals made up of bricks manufactured in Chartres, France and designed by
German artist Johannes Dietz to depict the story of rum production, the annex is a two-story structure,
cantilevering 24 feet from a center core, rising to a 47 foot height. Be sure not to miss the Bacardi museum in
the main building’s lobby.
FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDENS
10901 Old Cutler Road in Coral Gables www.ftg.org
One of the world's preeminent botanic gardens, with
extensive collections of rare tropical plants including
palms, cycads, flowering trees and vines. Established in
1938, the 83-acre garden is among the region's most
popular visitor attractions and offers a variety of programs
in environmental education, conservation and horticulture.
An international leader in tropical plant research, Fairchild
Tropical Botanic Garden plays an important part in
preserving the biodiversity of the tropical environment.
David Fairchild (1869-1954) was one of the greatest plant
explorers of all time. At the age of 22, he created the Section of Foreign Seed and Plant Introduction of the
United States Department of Agriculture, and for the next 37 years, he traveled the world in search of plants of
potential use to the American people. His far-reaching travels brought into cultivation in the U.S. many
important plants, including mangos, alfalfa, nectarines, dates, horseradish, bamboos and flowering
cherries.
Dr. Fairchild retired to Miami in 1935, sharing his vast knowledge and experience in tropical plants with Col.
Robert H. Montgomery, who founded the botanical garden and named it to honor his friend. Many plants still
growing in the Garden were collected and planted by Dr. Fairchild, including a giant African baobab tree not
far from the entrance. In 1940 Dr. Fairchild embarked on the first official collecting expedition for FTBG, sailing
from the Philippines to the Indonesian archipelago on a special oceangoing Chinese junk called the Cheng
Ho. The voyage provided many of the early botanical specimens before the outbreak of World War II forced the
explorers to return home.
I.M. PEI TOWER- SKY LOBBY TERRACE
Designed by Pei Cobb Freed Partners, under the guidance of famed I.M. Pei, the wedding cake inspired
façade of this modern Miami landmark boasts 46 floors for a total 585 in height. Its curved layers and
horizontal banding reflects one of the cities first fully incorporated architectural lighting systems and a rooftop
heliport – seen in Gloria Estefan Turn The Beat Around video.
One of the best points of this landmark is its sky lobby, located on the rooftop of the first tier of the building
and housing a wonderful cafeteria that is open to the public and boasts great window views of downtown.
Venture out of the glass doors to a wonderful rooftop Garden of Eden, including a serene and expansive
reflecting pond, meticulously manicured tropical foliage and Miami’s most breathtaking views of downtown
Miami, looking south over the high-rises of Brickell Avenue, lush Coconut Grove and crystal blue Biscayne bay.
SPANISH MONASTERY
16711 West Dixie highway, North Miami Beach
www.spanishmonastery.com
How a Tenth Century Monastery came to South Florida
The Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was built in Sacramenia, in the
Province of Segovia, Spain, during the period 1133-1141. It was originally
dedicated in honor of the Blessed Mother and named the "Monastery of
Our Lady, Queen of the Angels." Upon the canonization of the famous
Cistercian Monk, Bernard of Clairvaux, a leading influence in the Church
during that period, the Monastery was renamed in his honor. Cistercian
monks occupied the monastery for nearly 700 years. The cloisters were
seized, sold, and converted into a granary and stable due to a social
revolution in that area in the mid 1830's.
In 1925 William Randolph Hearst purchased the Cloisters and the
Monastery's outbuildings. The structures were dismantled stone by stone,
bound with protective hay, packed in some 11,000 wooden crates,
numbered for identification and shipped to the United States. About that
time, hoof and mouth disease had broken out in Segovia, and the U.S.
Department of Agriculture, fearing possible contagion, quarantined the shipment upon its arrival, broke open
the crates and burned the hay, a possible carrier of the disease. Unfortunately, the workmen failed to replace
the stones in the same numbered boxes before moving them to a warehouse. Soon after the shipment
arrived, Hearst's financial problems forced most of his collection to be sold at auction. The stones remained
in a warehouse in Brooklyn, New York, for 26 years. One year after Hearts' death in 1952, they were
purchased by Messrs. W. Edgemon and R. Moss for use as a tourist attraction. It took 19 months and almost
$1.5 million dollars to put the Monastery back together. Some of the unmatched stones still remain in the
back lot; others were used in the construction of the present Church's Parish Hall.
St Bernard's Church, as we know it today, started out not on these grounds but at a savings and loan building
on N.E. 167th Street. Its name at that time was "The Mission of St. John the Divine," and services were held at
that location for approximately one year under the leadership of Rev. Harold L. Batchelor (1963-64). The
Mission of St. John the Divine became the Church of St. Bernard de Clairvaux, named in honor of the great
Saint who had been a leading influence among the Cistercians 847 years ago, and whose feast day is
commemorated on August 20.
In 1964, Bishop Henry Louttit purchased the property for the Diocese of South Florida, later to become the
Dioceses of Central, Southeast and Southwest Florida. Shortly thereafter, when the three dioceses ran into
financial difficulties, the Monastery was put up for sale and the parishioners of St. Bernard feared a second
move. During the Bishopric of the Rt. Rev. James Duncan, Col. Robert Pentland, JR, a multimillionaire
banker, philanthropist and benefactor of many Episcopal churches, purchased the Cloisters and presented
them to the parish of St. Bernard de Clairvaux.
BOTANICA NENA
902 N.W. 27th Ave., Miami, FL, USA 305-649-8078
Botanica Nena is the largest and most complete botanica (a store
specializing in the occult) in Miami, stocking roots, herbs, seashells,
candles, incense, and potions of all sorts associated with the Santeria
religion. Its non-conventional subject matter and inner city location
make this shop ideal for the respectful and adventurous.
Santeria is not an archaic religion. It is a vibrant force with five hundred
years of continuous history in the Western Hemisphere. Its African
roots go back at least as far as Christianity's.
Santeria is syncretic religon that combines elements of African and
Catholic beliefs. Brought with slaves from the West Coast of Africa,
this belief system is still widely practiced in Cuba and among select groups in Miami. Botanica shops cater
to a variety of individuals who practice this traditional religion.
Santeria has millions of followers spread across the United States, the Caribbean, Central, and South
America. There is Voodoo in Haiti, Macumba in Brazil and Candomble in the Northern coasts of South
America. Its adherents come from all walks o f life; doctors, lawyers, politicians, thieves and pimps. All those
who seek the power to control their own lives and want to lead them in accord with the deepest parts of their
beings are candidates for initiation into Santeria. As the traditional belief systems of the Western world cease
to provide a direct emotional involvement with the mysteries of life, more and more people are turning to the
throbbing of the Santeria drums. It is a religion of trance, mystery, possession, blood and sex. What follows is
a brief glimpse into Santeria. If you want to know more, go to the ceremonies, burn the candles and dance to
the drums. Skin color or language are no barriers. The ancient gods will recognize their own.
CUBAN MEMORIAL BOULEVARD AND STARS WALK OF FAME
Cuban Memorial Boulevard located on 13th Avenue, between
Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) and Coral Way (SW 24th street).
The Boulevard is a parkway on which can be found a series of
monuments commemorating the history and culture of Cuba.
The Walk of Fame celebrates the accomplishments of major
Cuban cultural and artistic figures, as well as the activities of
organizations such as Ballet Concerto. The Hollywood Walk of
Fame is known worldwide and is a major tourist attraction.
Javier Soto wanted Miami to have a similar Walk of Fame in
which Latin stars would be recognized. His dream came true
on March 2, 1989, when Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound
Machine received the first star on the Latin Star Walk.
However, this did not happen overnight. Forming a company,
developing the idea, and getting the support and permission
of local government organizations took time and became a long and drawn out process. It all started when
Soto, a publicist, and his wife, Sara, an operator with ITT, formed the company called Latin Stars, Inc., in
1988. The purpose was to obtain the sidewalks in Little Havana between 12th and 17th avenue on Calle
Ocho, the main street in Little Havana, to be reserved for the stars.
The idea came about when Celia Cruz, the Cuban salsa queen, received a star in 1987 on the Hollywood
Walk of Fame. The Sotos were proud of her accomplishment, but they realized that many Latin celebrities
would never be recognized in Hollywood. Since the start of the "Calle Ocho Walk of Fame" in 1988, more than
20 celebrities have been honored by receiving stars.
Copyright © Herb Sosa & AMBIENTE MAGAZINE. Do not reproduce without citing these sources.
