Plaza de la Catedral (Cathedral Square), Havana (must see)

Cathedral Square is one of the principal historic squares of Old Havana. Originally a marshy area, it was later drained and used as a naval dockyard before becoming one of the city’s most elegant colonial spaces. Grand mansions began to rise around the square during the 18th century, transforming it into an impressive showcase of Cuban Baroque architecture.

Today, the square is dominated by Havana Cathedral, which stands on its northern side. It is one of the finest Baroque buildings in Cuba and is easily recognized by its two asymmetrical bell towers and richly textured coral-stone façade. The surrounding arcades, stone paving, and aristocratic residences create one of the most harmonious architectural ensembles in Old Havana.

Around the square, admire the grand mansions once built for Havana’s colonial elite. Many now serve as museums, galleries, cultural institutions, or restaurants. Lombillo House stands on the eastern side of the square, beside Empedrado Street. This elegant 18th-century residence is associated with the development of Havana’s early postal service and later housed offices connected with the preservation of Old Havana.

Directly opposite the cathedral, on the southern side of the square, stands the House of the Count of Casa Bayona. One of the oldest surviving mansions around the plaza, it now houses the Colonial Art Museum, whose rooms display period furniture, porcelain, decorative objects, and other examples of domestic life among Havana’s wealthy colonial families.

For a relaxed break, stop at El Patio, a well-known restaurant located in the House of the Marquis of Aguas Claras, near the northwestern corner of the square. Sit beneath the shaded arcade or choose an outdoor table overlooking the plaza while enjoying one of Old Havana’s most atmospheric settings.