In 2019, King Charles, then Prince, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, became the first members of the royal family to visit Cuba in a diplomatic capacity. This trip was to help create closer ties between the UK and Cuba, which were enemies during the Cold War.
Lord Ahmad, the Commonwealth minister, also joined them in representing the UK government. His visit was a meaningful way to show how Downing Street supported this Cuba trip and to create new relationships with Cuba as the nation was socially and economically opening up to the world.
This royal visit marked a significant milestone in diplomatic relations and offered an intriguing glimpse into Cuba’s rich culture and heritage. Keep reading for their complete itinerary, including the places they visited, where they ate, and the people they met along the way.
Arrival in Havana
The royal couple’s journey commenced with their arrival in Havana, Cuba’s vibrant capital city. Against the backdrop of colourful colonial architecture and rhythmic salsa beats, Charles and Camilla were warmly welcomed by Cuban dignitaries.
Soon after arriving in Havana, Prince Charles and Camilla attended a wreath-laying ceremony for one of Cuba’s heroes, poet Jose Marti. A large wreath of roses was laid at the monument in Revolution Square—this is the site where Fidel Castro has addressed millions of Cubans, and it’s also home to Cuba’s National Theater.
Exploring Old Havana
Amidst cobblestone streets and ornate plazas, the royal duo experienced the magic of exploring Old Havana, touring churches, cafes, and shops under the guidance of city historian Eusebio Leal.
They stepped inside the Cathedral of Havana, also known as La Catedral de la Virgen María de la Concepción Inmaculada de La Habana. This is one of 11 Catholic cathedrals on the island – and this large, rectangular church is also the seat of the Archdiocese of San Cristóbal de la Habana.
After strolling down Plaza Vieja, the couple stopped to eat at Cafe Bohemia, an eatery facing this iconic plaza in the city centre. This charming cafe has a stunning outdoor patio and serves Italian pastries, pasta, sandwiches, and espresso drinks.
Charles and Camilla also went into the studio of Carlos Acosta, an iconic former Cuban dancer. This choreographer and dancer retired from the Royal Ballet in 2015 and was appointed head of the Royal Ballet of Birmingham in 2020. The couple greeted the dancers at the Cuban National Ballet Company and then watched a performance with a blend of traditional, classical, and modern Cuban dance.
Joyriding in Cuba’s Vintage Cars
While most tourists to Cuba enjoy riding in classic cars, King Charles took it a step further and got to drive a vintage car – a rare privilege! Driving a 1953 MG Series TD with Camilla in the passenger seat, Prince Charles arrived in style at a classic car rally in John Lennon Park.
It turns out King Charles was a car enthusiast himself. “The one I was driving is the most beautiful car. It has an incredibly powerful accelerator. It is incredibly close to the brake, so you have to be careful you don’t press the wrong one,” he said. Cruising around Cuba is a must if you love vintage cars!
Visiting the Cuban Art Factory
Charles and Camilla also spent some time at Fabrica de Arte Cubano, or FAC, known as the Cuban Art Factory. This art gallery and club are inside a former cooking oil factory, but today, it’s one of Havana’s hottest art galas and nightclubs.
There are several cultural attractions and exhibits within this venue showcasing Cuban contemporary art, as well as atmospheric bars with tasty cocktails. You’ll also find several concert venues within the FAC, and Charles and Camilla actually attended a performance while they were here.
The couple also met with budding entrepreneurs at this venue, including the owners of Clandestina, a textile shop selling cool bags and t-shirts in Old Havana.
Sampling Cuban Cuisine
While Camilla had previously made headlines by stating that she was a bit nervous about trying Cuban cuisine, the couple were pleasantly surprised during their trip. King Charles was photographed grinding his own guarapo, also known as sugarcane juice, and mixing mojitos at a paladar, also known as a private restaurant.
At this dinner, the royal couple was presented with food and vegetables from around the island, and they particularly enjoyed eating the local goat cheese. The Prince enjoyed the food at Rita y Champagne (one of Havana’s hidden gem restaurants) so much that he asked the chef to pack some black bean croquettes for him to eat on the plane.
Taking a Picture with John Lennon
In John Lennon Park, you’ll find a life-size sculpture of this Liverpool musician sitting on a park bench. Of course, Charles and Camilla had to stop for a picture since Lennon is one of the most renowned icons of British culture.
The area around John Lennon Park is considered the most British part of Havana – you’ll even find a bar called The Yellow Submarine!
Touring Areito EGREM Recording Studio
Known as Cuba’s national record label, Areito EGREM Recording Studio has been the site where numerous Cuban musicians have recorded their albums. Charles and Camilla toured the studio and then enjoyed a jazz performance. They also got to meet Eliades Ochoa, a member of the Buena Vista Social Club! The Buena Vista Social Club was founded in 1996 and comprises Cuban musicians who are dedicated to reviving traditional Cuban music.
Eco-Friendly Points of Interest
On a solo venture, King Charles paid a visit to Mariel Solar Park and Biomass Harvesters. The Prince cut the ribbon to mark the beginning of construction on the solar park, which will add renewable energy to Cuba’s power grid.
Charles also toured Finca Marta, an organic farm. The owner, Fernando Funes Monzote, shared how the farm is popularizing organic food around Cuba.
Final thoughts
King Charles and Camilla’s visit to Cuba was more than just a diplomatic formality. Within the four days they spent around the island, they experienced the best parts of Cuban culture, from incredible food and art to Havana’s charming neighbourhoods. Best of all, they created a meaningful and lasting connection between these two countries.
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