Among other things to see in Havana, there are a few squares, significant due to their history, location, and identity. Some were constructed at the same time as Havana’s founding, while others changed their purpose throughout the centuries, thanks to the quick development of the bay of Havana and the diverse demands of its growing population.
Today, vsitors are able to get to know the history of Cuba by visiting the famous four plazas (squares), which give you a sense of the identity of Havana. Close by each of these squares, you will find some of the best examples of colonial buildings to admire.
Plaza Vieja
Being located in the central part of the Old Havana district, this square changed its name several times. It was first built as Plaza Nueva or the New Square in 1559 as the third open space in the city. Besides being a spot for processions and bullfights, it’s now extremely important due to its architectural heritage. This is one of the most eclectic plazas with buildings dating back to the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.
Plaza Nueva was initially constructed as a popular, more lively alternative to Plaza de Armas, where administrative offices were situated. However, the novelty of this Plaza wore off, when yet another square, Plaza del Santo Cristo, emerged in Havana. Thus, Plaza Nueva became Plaza Vieja or Old Square.
Given that it was turned into a market during the 18th century, the plaza became a commercial centre and was named Plaza del Mercado, or Market Square. When the new market was installed at the beginning of the 19th century, the square regained its old name. It was later called Plaza Real, Mayor, Mercado, Fernando VII, etc.
The original fountain in its centre was made of Italian Carrara marble and adorned by four dolphins. It was replaced in the first half of the 20th century by an underground parking area. Ever since Old Havana was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980, the square has been restored to its previous glory.
There are several landmark buildings to see here. Pay attention to ornate stained glass windows on the second floor of La Casona Centro de Arte, or El Planetario with its Camara Oscura.
Plaza de la Catedral
Plaza de la Catedral is one of the most popular places in this part of the Cuban capital. It’s hard to imagine that prior to the 18th century this area was a vast swamp. Not only was it later drained but after the construction of the cathedral, it also became one of the most popular meeting points for locals and visitors alike. Wealthy merchants started to build stylish mansions around the Cathedral and it thus evolved into a genuine square – Plaza de la Catedral.
Catedral de la Havana was built in the 18th century and it’s a top-rated attraction among travellers. It can get very busy when cruising ships dock in Havana since the square is not very big in size. It’s one of the 11 Catholic cathedrals in Cuba and best-known for housing Christopher Columbus’ remains until the end of the 19th century, when they were moved to Seville. Don’t miss the chance to take a look at the copies of paintings by Rubens and Murillo on the altars in the side chapels.
Besides the Cathedral, there are other sights to see in this plaza. Notable examples are El Museo del Arte Colonial, Palacio del Conde de Lombillo with lovely decorative windows, and a restaurant terrace to have lunch at. Casa de Lombillo was home to the first Cuban post office.
Plaza de Armas
This square is the oldest in Havana with some of the most popular landmark buildings in the city. The so-called Square of Arms was constructed in 1519. Being home to military and government offices, it was often used for military parades.
According to the 16th-century tradition, the square had views of the open sea and was constructed next to the wharf. One of the main landmarks here is the Renaissance-styled Castillo de la Real Fuerza or the Castle of the Royal Force. There is also a monument to be seen here, dedicated to Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, Cuban patriot and initiator of the Ten Year War against the Spanish in 1868, also known as Father of the Nation.
The 19th-century Greek-style neoclassical temple popularly known as El Templete, is occupying the spot where Havana was actually founded in 1519. Nearby is also an interesting 18th-century mansion called Casa del Conde de Santovenia which is now turned into a hotel, and the baroque Palacio de los Capitanes Generales which is the former governor’s palace.
Plaza de San Francisco de Asis
Plaza de San Francisco de Asis is quite open compared to other smaller squares. This was the colonial centre back in the 16th century, when it was built facing the port. The Spanish would stop here on the way to their homeland. The square is still bustling and vibrant with a lot of cafés and restaurants. It was fully restored during the 1990s.
One attention-grabbing building in the square is the former church and convent dedicated to St Francis and turned into the Museo de Arte Religioso (Religious Arts Museum). There is also Terminal Sierra Maestra, the former harbour for Spanish galleons, and Camara de Representantes which serves as a stately museum with some stunning architectural designs inside. This square is also home to Museo del Ron (Rum Museum) and Coche Mambi, the train that once served as the Presidential car.
Plaza de San Francisco de Asis is a great starting point when strolling around Old Havana. It’s close to the sea and abundant in dining options.
Additional spots
Bear in mind that Old Havana is home to other points of interest besides the architecture. For instance, the nearby famous bar La Bodeguita del Medio where the mojito was born is right behind the Havana Cathedral. You can also visit the renowned Hotel Ambos Mundos, where Ernest Hemingway lived before buying a house on the outskirts of the city.
Less than 10 minutes away on foot is the Revolution Museum, while the scenic seafront called the Malecon is more than accessible from any of the four plazas.
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