Habana Vieja, the historic heart of Havana, Cuba, is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with colonial charm. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, where colorful buildings, lively plazas, and centuries-old fortresses tell the story of Cuba’s past. Visit landmarks like the Catedral de La Habana and the iconic Plaza de Armas, and enjoy the vibrant local culture in lively cafes and street markets. With its rich history, captivating architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, Habana Vieja is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a glimpse of authentic Cuban heritage and culture.
Old Havana (La Habana Vieja) is a living museum of Cuba’s rich history, culture, and architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this part of the city is a treasure trove of colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant plazas that have witnessed centuries of fascinating history.
A Step Back in Time
Founded by the Spanish in 1519, Old Havana was once the beating heart of Spanish trade and culture in the New World. Its strategic harbor made it a vital port for ships traveling between Europe and the Americas. As you walk through the historic streets, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by colorful facades, grand churches, and majestic fortresses.
One of the most iconic landmarks is El Capitolio, a monumental building that echoes the grandeur of the U.S. Capitol, showcasing the city’s neoclassical influences. Nearby, Plaza de Armas, the oldest square in Havana, invites visitors to relax under the shade of trees, surrounded by impressive colonial buildings, including the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, now the City Museum.
Architectural Wonders
The architecture of Old Havana is a blend of styles, ranging from Baroque to Neoclassical, with crumbling yet stunning façades that tell stories of past grandeur. The majestic Havana Cathedral is a prime example of Cuban Baroque style, while Castillo de la Real Fuerza, one of the oldest fortresses in the Americas, reflects the city’s military history.
Vibrant Streets and Culture
Beyond its historic landmarks, Old Havana pulses with life. The streets are lined with colorful colonial houses, street musicians playing lively Cuban rhythms, and artists showcasing their work. Be sure to visit the Plaza Vieja, a vibrant square surrounded by restaurants and cafés, where you can enjoy a refreshing mojito or Cuban coffee while taking in the local atmosphere.
A Living Legacy
Old Havana is more than just a historical site; it’s a living, breathing community. Its history is preserved in its architecture and traditions, but the energy of its residents keeps the area alive and vibrant. Whether you’re wandering its ancient streets, visiting its museums, or simply soaking up the ambiance in one of its plazas, Old Havana offers a unique window into Cuba’s past and present.
Wild Bill's Pub Crawl is a unique half a day-, or full day tour, depending on your needs for mojitos, beers and other refrescos, along several bars and small restaurants in Habana Vieja (Old Havana)
Bars in this tour are: Floridita, Monserrate, Castillo de Farnes, Hanoi (restaurant), Lluvia de Oro, Café de Paris, La Muralla, O'Reilly, and end in the real typical Cuban peso bar Bilbao.
Tailormade by Bruce, an old friend of the Cuba-Junky website.
You can see the full tour by watching the video, another option is to download it on your Apple iPod and print out the description and the map, through the links below in this article, take with you to Havana and enjoy the tour
We completed the Old Havana Pub Crawl originally posted by Wild Bill before his passing. It was fantastic.
Capitolio Nacional
Capitolio Nacional in Havana, Cuba: A Timeless Icon of Cuban Architecture
The Capitolio Nacional is one of Havana’s most iconic landmarks, a symbol of Cuba’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Located at the heart of Havana, this stunning neoclassical building draws visitors from around the world with its majestic beauty and historical significance.
History and Architecture
Built between 1926 and 1929, the Capitolio Nacional was designed under the direction of Cuban President Gerardo Machado. It served as the seat of the Cuban legislature until 1959, when it became home to the Cuban Academy of Sciences and later, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and the Environment. Today, it is the seat of the Cuban National Assembly.
The Capitolio’s architectural design is often compared to the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., but it also incorporates influences from European landmarks like Paris’ Pantheon and Rome’s St. Peter’s Basilica. The building’s facade features grand columns and a sweeping dome that rises to a height of 92 meters, making it one of the tallest buildings in Havana.
Must-See Features
One of the Capitolio’s most notable features is its magnificent dome, topped with a golden replica of the Roman goddess Minerva. The dome is also home to Cuba’s Kilómetro Cero, the starting point from which all distances on the island are measured.
As you enter, the grandeur continues with the Statue of the Republic, the world’s third-largest indoor statue, standing 17 meters tall. This impressive bronze figure represents a symbol of Cuba’s independence and national identity.
Visitors are also drawn to the building’s opulent interiors, featuring marble floors, elaborate frescoes, and beautifully restored chambers that evoke the splendor of the early 20th century. Guided tours allow you to explore the main hall, legislative chambers, and other historically significant rooms.
Visiting the Capitolio Nacional
The Capitolio Nacional has undergone extensive restoration in recent years and reopened to the public as a tourist attraction. It is located on Paseo del Prado, near other key sites such as the Gran Teatro de La Habana and Parque Central, making it a perfect stop on a tour of Old Havana.
Whether you’re a lover of architecture, history, or culture, the Capitolio Nacional is a must-visit destination in Havana, offering a glimpse into the past while standing as a symbol of Cuba’s enduring spirit.
Around Habana Vieja you will see many street performers, the lady with the big cigar (La Famosa), the two Beny More's, the woman who is reading the Tarot Cards for you and many more ...
One of them is the very happy Pillo Chocolate and usually walks around in Old Havana in the area of Plaza Catedral, Pillo , together with his two dogs (mother and daughter), are giving shows for the tourists.
You should see them in real life, his act is hilarious ... and don't forget to tip him ;)
Pillo Chocolate and his dogs are also very famous among the Havana locals too because he is a regular at the Havana baseball games
Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro: A Beacon of History in Havana, Cuba
Perched majestically at the entrance of Havana Bay, the Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro is one of Cuba’s most iconic landmarks. Also known simply as El Morro, this historic fortress offers visitors a glimpse into Cuba’s rich colonial past while providing breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
A Fortress with a Story
Built in the late 16th century to defend Havana from pirate attacks and foreign invaders, Castillo del Morro was part of a broader effort by the Spanish Empire to fortify its Caribbean territories. The fortress, designed by the Italian engineer Giovanni Battista Antonelli, features thick stone walls, towering watchtowers, and intricate passageways that reflect the strategic military architecture of the time.
One of its most prominent features is the lighthouse, added in the mid-19th century. Still operational today, it stands as a symbol of guidance and safety for ships entering Havana harbor. The sight of the lighthouse illuminating the Cuban coastline at sunset is one of the most memorable experiences the castle has to offer.
Unforgettable Panoramas
Visitors can walk along the fortress walls, where they will be rewarded with stunning views of Havana’s old town, La Habana Vieja, and the shimmering waters of the Caribbean Sea. The position of the fortress at the bay’s mouth offers unbeatable photo opportunities of the historic cityscape and the famous Malecón promenade.
Explore Cuban Military History
Inside the fortress, you’ll find well-preserved cannons, watchtowers, and even dungeons, all offering a vivid picture of colonial life and warfare. The fortress also houses several small museums with exhibits that tell the story of Cuba’s military and maritime history. This makes it an excellent spot for history buffs, offering insights into how Havana became such a key point of defense in the Caribbean during the age of exploration.
The Cannon Ceremony
One of the highlights of any visit to El Morro is the Cañonazo Ceremony, held every evening at 9 p.m. In this time-honored tradition, soldiers dressed in 18th-century uniforms fire a cannon to mark the closing of the city gates, a ritual dating back to colonial times when Havana was secured from potential invaders each night. The loud boom of the cannon shot echoes through the city, providing a dramatic and immersive historical experience.
Getting There and Practical Information
The Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro is located across the bay from Old Havana and can be accessed via taxi, ferry, or guided tour. It is open daily, and admission prices are very affordable, making it a must-see destination for travelers. Allow at least two hours to fully explore the fortress, and don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as there is quite a bit of walking over cobblestone paths and staircases.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or just a curious traveler, El Morro is an unmissable part of any visit to Havana. It stands not only as a monument to Cuba’s colonial past but also as a stunning vantage point from which to appreciate the beauty of the present-day city.
Discover Havana’s history at El Morro—where the past meets the sea.
Castillo San Salvador de la Punta
Discover Castillo San Salvador de la Punta: A Historical Gem in Havana, Cuba
Located at the entrance of Havana Bay, Castillo San Salvador de la Punta is one of the most remarkable historical landmarks in Cuba. Built in the late 16th century, this formidable fortress played a crucial role in the defense of the city against pirates, invaders, and foreign armies, safeguarding the rich treasures and bustling port of Havana. Today, it stands as a testament to Cuba’s colonial history, inviting visitors to explore its well-preserved ramparts and learn about its fascinating past.
A Key Part of Havana’s Defenses
Construction of Castillo de la Punta began in 1589 under the direction of Italian engineer Juan Bautista Antonelli, who designed it as part of a strategic plan to protect Havana from seafaring threats. Along with the nearby Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro, these two fortresses formed a crucial defense system, controlling access to the bay and shielding the city from potential attacks.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the fort’s defense strategy was the use of an underwater chain that could be extended across the bay from La Punta to El Morro. This chain would block enemy ships from entering the harbor, making Havana one of the best-protected cities in the Americas during the colonial era.
Architecture and Layout
The castle’s architecture reflects the military design of the period, with sturdy walls made of stone and mortar, watchtowers, and a series of canons that once lined its ramparts. Visitors can walk along these walls, soaking in views of Havana’s skyline and the tranquil waters of the bay. Inside, you’ll find various historical exhibits that recount the fort’s history, its role in naval defense, and life in colonial Cuba.
A Living Piece of History
Though Castillo de la Punta has undergone restorations over the centuries, it has retained much of its original charm. Today, the fortress houses a small museum where you can explore fascinating artifacts, models of historic ships, and documents that detail Havana’s maritime history. The fort’s central courtyard is often used for cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts, adding a vibrant modern twist to this historic site.
Practical Information
Castillo San Salvador de la Punta is conveniently located along the Malecón, Havana’s famous seaside promenade, making it easy to visit as part of a stroll through the city. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy stunning views and a slice of Cuban heritage, this iconic fortress is a must-see destination during your trip to Havana.
Come and immerse yourself in the captivating history of Castillo San Salvador de la Punta, where the past and present converge in one of Cuba’s most iconic sites!
