The cobblestone streets and cigar factories of Ybor City make it a unique attraction in the Tampa area, as well as one of only three National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida.
Known as the “Cigar Capital of the World,” Ybor City was founded by a cigar manufacturing titan, Vincente Martinez e Ybor. He was born in Spain and lived in Spanish Cuba for 15 years before immigrating to the United States in the 1860’s. He imported tobacco from Cuba and hired Cuban exiles to work in his factories, establishing Ybor City as a home for immigrants from around the world.
At the time that built the factories, the population of Tampa was a mere 700 people. Eventually Tampa grew and annexed Ybor City in 1887. Ybor City maintained its identity and the population boomed, reaching 6,000 people by 1890. The diverse concentration of the population was unique for the southern United States. Because of its proximity to Cuba, it became a space of Cuban exiles and political activity in particular.
By the 1900’s, Ybor City became one of the highest quality cigar rolling manufacturers in the world, surpassing Havana, Cuba. The business peaked in the 1920’s before falling victim to the Great Recession.
Many of the original landmarks still stand in Ybor City, including businesses, churches, social clubs, and public buildings. Among the most popular landmarks are the factories. There are nine cigar factories still standing in Ybor City today, with the largest located on 16th Street.
During the mid-20th century, Ybor City went through hard times, becoming an urban slum before being revitalized in the 1980’s for its charm as a “city within a city.” The commercial district now offers shopping, museums, hotels and public spaces. Ghost tours are available as one of the many attractions for this unique cultural icon in the Tampa area.
