You might wander around as much as you want in Havana looking for a best place to hang out and you will never find a place as beautiful and attractive as The Cathedral Square. This spot is the subject of admiration of each and every person tourist or local that has ever visited it.
In earlier times it was named Plaza de la Cinaga (Swamp Square), and later on “Plaza de la Catedral”, it is a place that has much to do with the beginning of Havana, founded on the 16th Century in the proximities of Havana’s harbour.
Late in the 18th century and after many refurbishment to a religious building which eventually became The Cathedral of Havana Cathedral the Square was to be known as The Cathedral Square. The Cathedral it self is just amazing. On its facades the best baroque architecture of Havana can be appreciated which contrast with its complete Neoclassic style in the interior. Beautiful buildings surround the this church harmonizing with the splendour of the square.
Several significant events and festivities find home in this amazing little landmark of Havana. Festival, music concerts and gala dinners organized by the government for important groups have found the perfect venue in Cathedral Square. An excellent weather all year around is always the perfect allied and escorted by a superb and colourful architecture you will be able to soak up the atmosphere to the beat of salsa band.
As a special feature, one of the nearby alleys is the seat of the most famous Cuban restaurant: La Bodeguita del Medio which reaffirms its quality after serving for more than 60 years since its foundation.It is an emblematic restaurant for the Cuban tourism, with the walls full of around two million autographs of all clients from different time periods, and photographs left by outstanding figures such as Ernest Hemingway, Mario Benedetti, Pablo Neruda or Errol Fryn.
The list of personalities that have visit this restaurant extends along decades now. Today tourists can enjoy not only the best Cuban food but also in its bar the best Mojito cocktails. There is always a crowd outside taking pictures or simply dancing to music played by a small band.
During day time the square becomes crowded with visitors who come to experience the splendour of its walls. The music, the cocktails and specially the characters that can be found here make it a unique place in Havana. You will find an old lady that reads the cards, the one that poses with a huge cigar and the ones that dance all the time even when there is no music playing.
A word of advice is to find a hotel in the old town, there are about 15 of them and they are very small, cosy and boutique hotels with very affordable prices. Santa Isabel and Florida hotels have both the best standard of service and location. Every thing you need to do or see will be walking distance from your hotels. At the end of the day you do not want the hassle of having to take taxis while on your holidays.
Viewed 98 times by 18 viewers
