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Cathedral Square

This is one of the most beautiful places in Old Havana, in the oldest center of Havana, one of the five main squares.

Originally called Plaza de la Ciénaga due to its muddy terrain, but already in the 18th century it had become one of the most important squares in the city and after being reclaimed and paved, wealthy families moved to the area and began building their palaces there.

The buildings were constructed around the central space to create a square embellished with numerous porticoes that offer shade and shelter from the tropical rains.

In addition to the cathedral that gives the square its definitive appearance, the other three sides are occupied by the facades of aristocratic baroque palaces from the 18th century, all built within a period of 40 years and displaying a strong architectural harmony.

It is one of the main attractions not to be missed.

The house of Marqués de Arcos (1746) next door is a palace that became a post office in the mid-19th century (note the unusual stone mask mailbox in the wall).