What you will do?

Five hundred years of well-preserved history have made the Cuban capital a must-visited city to people willing to enhance their knowledge about the world. This walking tour will allow you to approach its Historic Center from three different perspectives. First, a historical-cultural perspective will help you understand the origins and evolution of Havana, the main characteristics of its inhabitants, and the social structure of Cuban society. Secondly, an architectural approach will permit you to identify the particular mixture of different styles that date from different epochs and coexist in harmony in the city. Among the different styles you will appreciate the simplicity of Mudejar art, the peculiarity of Cuban baroque, the majesty of Neoclassicism, and the impressive ornamentation of Art Nouveau.

The third perspective is focused on two parts: the restoration process of the territory, managed by the City Historian’s Office to preserve the heritage of the city; and the social labor carried out by the Office as well to maintain the concept of a “living city.”

Therefore, we will walk through the four main squares and connecting streets that encompass the Golden Mile of the Historic Center. Moreover, we will go on short visits to some well-preserved buildings in order to appreciate the architecture in some of them, and the social projects carried out by the Office to improve local conditions. For instance, we will visit the external courtyard of the Castle of the Royal Force, the inside of the baroque General Captains palace, colonial houses with different architectural styles, natural parks, and art galleries.

Besides, we will also walk outside the Golden Mile for seeing the contrast between the two very different zones, both listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco. No doubts, this walking tour in Havana’s historic center is the perfect choice for those who have never visited the Old City, and for those willing to deepen their understanding of this marvelous city.

Where you’ll be?

• We will be walking around Havana’s Golden Mile, composed of the four main squares of the historic center and its linking streets. There, we will visit historic buildings, theme hotels, art galleries, and other open spaces.