Historical Churches and Cathedrals Walking Tour (Self Guided), Havana

Discovered and conquered by Spanish colonists in the early 16th century, Havana has turned into a major religious center of Catholicism in the Caribbean. Although a communist regime is currently in power, many of the churches, cathedrals, and other religious buildings have been preserved and still give a glimpse of the city’s religious heritage.

The old Havana Cathedral, located in a beautiful square of the Old Town, is among the most important symbols for its architectural style and for having been named the Cathedral of Peace. One of the oldest cathedrals in America, its construction began in 1748 by the Jesuits and was completed 29 years later by the Franciscans. Inside, you may see a splendid altar made in Rome, along with many gilded sculptures, or climb the tower for a small fee and have a view over town.

Furthermore, on a corner of the Plaza de Armas, you may visit El Templete ("Little Temple") – a charming copy of a Doric temple, and the nearby Minor Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, completed in 1730 in baroque style with a 40-meter bell tower, which once served as Havana’s main church. Ending the trip is Havana’s oldest Christian site, dating from the 1630s, when it was a hermitage for the devotions of free blacks.

For gorgeous architecture and amazing religious history, this self-guided tour is a definite must!