Cultivating and smoking tobacco was something
the natives of the American continent were the originators of.
The word cigar originated from sikar, the Mayan word
for smoking.
Used especially in ceremonies and religious rituals, the rest
of the world was introduced to this practice with the discovery
of the American continent by Christopher Columbus in 1492. Spanish
and European sailors took the custom back to Europe, where it
soon became widespread and very popular.
Given the increasing demand for good quality
cigars, the ones produced until that time in Spain were then
replaced by those being produced in Cuba. This was very important
for Cubans and as a token of appreciation a tradition was
established by which a box of the best cigars would be delivered
to the Spanish king every year.
Until the 60’s the cigar industry thrived,
however health issues and the U.S. embargo against Cuba have
had their effect. Even so, Cuban cigars continue to be extremely
popular not only among men but many women as well.
Unlike cigarettes, cigars stand for cool, calm
moments of mediation and contemplation.
