Have you ever seen pictures of the exotic capital of Cuba? Beautiful isn’t it? It’s the largest city in the Caribbean, and for centuries, it has served as the gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. In 1982 Old Havana was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, as it is the city’s historic center.
If only the buildings could talk. The place is filled with history. Such as the city’s first building which overlooks the entrance to a protected bay has been there since 1519. The city became a depository for treasures that Spanish fleets brought to the New World. It was originally known as La Villa de San Cristóbal de la Habana. Today, it is known as Havana, and it is the center of the nation’s life – political, scientific, and cultural. It houses the National Ballet of Cuba, House of the Américas, Foundation of New Latin American Film, and the National Folkloric Dance Group which have won international acclaim. Havana is a splendid place to visit which remains interesting in both day time and night time.
The places to hit while in Havana would include:
El Templete
An 1828 neoclassical building where the first mass and first town council of San Cristobal de la Habana was, and every November 16 a celebration is held in this place where lots of Habaneros come and join.
Parade Square
This is where major events are held. Here you can also find the Captain-General’s Palace (City Museum) and El Segundo Cabo. Atop the building’s tower is the La Giraldilla – a wind vane that has become the symbol of the city. In 1577, Castillo de la Real Fuerza had an exhibit of the most important pottery art collection in the island.
Cathedral Square
This square is surrounded by mansions! And this square is the recently restored Plaza Vieja and Francis of Assisi square. The church and convent that can be found in this area of the same name – one of the convent’s cloisters even houses the Museum of Sacred Art.
Morro-Cabaña Historic Military Park
This military park is marked by two ruins of historical importance: El Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro, and the fortress of San Carlos de la Cabaña. Both fortresses now house military museums where cannons are still shot daily to announce that it’s already 9 o’clock in the evening.
Vedado
This is the place that allows easy access to other places of interest such as the University of Havana, Revolution Square and the José Martí Monument, and the Colon Cemetery – one of the largest necropolises. Malecon, the famous 12-kilometer oceanside road links old Havana to the busy neighborhood of Vedado.
Cojimar
This is about six kilometers east of the city, and this is where Ernest Hemingway kept his boat, the Pilar. This is the same colorful fishing village where he found material and inspiration for many of his stories.
Aside from these places, there are still wonderful places to visit such as the beaches and coastline where activities such as the seafari and deep-sea fishing take place. Enjoy Cuba!
