Havana

The exotic capital of Cuba and largest city in the Caribbean is a must-see for any visitor. For centuries, it has served as the gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. And in 1982, Old Havana, the city’s historic centre, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city’s first building, overlooking the entrance to a protected bay, dates back to 1519. Originally christened La Villa de San Cristóbal de la Habana, the city became a depository for treasures that Spanish fleets brought to the New World. It also became the centre of trade and commerce between the old and new worlds. Havana’s strategic geographic position was a major factor in its rapid growth, and in the decision to build a sea wall in the 17th century. The wall was completed more than 100 years later.
Today, Havana is the heart of the nation’s busy political, scientific and cultural life. Museums, theatres and concert halls, art galleries and cultural institutions are popular venues, while some—such as the National Ballet of Cuba, House of the Américas, Foundation of New Latin American Film and National Folkloric Dance Group—have won international acclaim. Both day and night, Havana continues to thrill visitors anew.
 

Places to visit

El Templete

Every November 16, Habaneros flock to this small 1828 neoclassical building to celebrate the anniversary of the first mass and the first town council of San Cristobal de la Habana.

Parade Square

Major events are held in this square, where the Castillo de la Real Fuerza (1577) exhibits the most important pottery art collection in the island. The building’s tower is crowned by La Giraldilla, an artistic wind vane that has become a symbol of the city. Also in the square are the Captain-General’s Palace (Museum of the City) and El Segundo Cabo.

Cathedral Square

Surrounded by opulent mansions, this ancient square comprises the recently restored Plaza Vieja (Old Square) and Francis of Assisi square. On the former stands the San Juan de Jaruco mansion; on the latter are the church and convent of the same name. One of the convent’s cloisters houses the Museum of Sacred Art.

Morro-Cabaña historic military park

Two ruins mark this important historical fortress: El Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro (The Castle of the Three Kings of El Morro), built in 1630, and the fortress of San Carlos de la Cabaña, erected in 1774. Both house military museums, and cannons are still shot daily to announce 9 p.m.
Across from this park are the famous Prado Promenade, the Great Theatre of Havana and the Capitol building. This houses the Statue of the Republic, which has planted at its feet a diamond to mark kilometre zero of the Carretera Central (Central Road).

Vavana’s central business area, which contains an impressive model of the city. Past the Convention Centre, Pabexto, where various fairs take place during the year and beyond the exclusive Club Habana is Marina Hemingway. Here, visitors can go snorkeling, sailing and deep-sea fishing, or take seafari tours to the coral reef.