Pause to appreciate the architectural grandeur of Old Havana at Cathedral Square (Plaza de la Catedral). Marvel at the handsome baroque landmarks, browse art exhibitions and shop for handicrafts at an artisan market. Cathedral Square was the last of Old Havana’s principal squares to be laid out. It sits on an area of former marshland and was originally called Plaza de la Ciénga (Swamp Square).
The square’s crowning glory is Havana Cathedral (officially Catedral de San Cristóbal de la Habana). Built between 1748 and 1777, it’s one of the city’s finest examples of Baroque architecture. Admire the ornate façade, festooned with capitals, columns and asymmetrical bell towers. Inside you can see works by notable artists, including Bartolomé Murillo and Peter Paul Rubens.
Opposite the cathedral is the Casa del Conde de Casa Bayona, which houses the Museum of Colonial Art. Find displays of period décor and furniture common in Havana’s colonial-era residences. See collections of chinaware, glassware and ornamental flowers, which represent the aristocratic colonial lifestyles.
Other notable buildings include the Palacio del Conde de Lombillo, characterized by its arcade and decorative windows. Facing this is the Casa del Marqués de Aguas Claras, home to a restaurant with an elegant courtyard. Look for a mural by Andrés Carrillo on Calle Mercaderes. It depicts dignified characters from Cuba’s Spanish rule.
Spend some time perusing the stands of the square’s artisan market. Purchase everything from oil paintings to figurines, jewelry items and lacework. Chat with the vendors, many of whom dress in traditional, multi-colored attire. Restaurants often set up tables on the square and provide a great setting to sip on a cold beer or rum-inspired cocktail while enjoying the scenery.
Situated in the heart of Old Havana, Cathedral Square is just a short walk from several major city attractions. Less than 10 minutes away by foot are the Museum of the Revolution, Plaza de Armas and Plaza Vieja. Also nearby is the Malecón, a scenic seafront boulevard lined with pretty pastel-hued houses.
