Revolution Square

Ride the elevator to the top of the central monument for an excellent view of this historic plaza linked to Fidel Castro.

The iconic Plaza de la Revolución (Revolution Square) is among the world’s largest plazas and is decorated with gray utilitarian buildings and monuments. It is intrinsically linked with the rule of socialist revolutionary and former president Fidel Castro. Marvel at the sheer size of this enormous plaza, as you inspect the monuments and famous buildings. Capture photos of the brightly colored old cars that are now a part of Cuban tradition.

Admire the enormous drawing of revolutionary Che Guevara that decorates the concrete building on the northern flank of the square. Note the words Hasta La Victoria Siempre, meaning Always Towards Victory. The façade of the neighboring building has a similar work of art depicting another national revolutionary, Camilo Cienfuegoes.

Note how the square is entwined with memories of Fidel Castro’s reign, as the location of many of his rallies. Although it was initially designed in the 1920s by a French architect, it was finally completed and took its current name in 1959, the year Castro came to power and established the first communist state in the Western Hemisphere.

Gaze up at the star-shaped tower of the José Martí Memorial, which is 358 feet (109 meters) high. Take an elevator to the viewing platform at the summit for a panoramic view of the area. The various rooms on the first floor tell the life story of Cuban hero and political writer José Martí.

On the northeastern side of the square is the José Martí National Library, where you will find an intriguing photo exhibit. See the large Cuban flag that stands proudly in front of the Museum of the Revolution in the Presidential Palace, which is housed in the seat of the government. Clamber up its steps and meander in and out of the regal colonnade, which is flanked by palm trees.

Revolution Square is in the southeastern part of its namesake district in northwestern Havana. Take a train to the 19 de Noviembre station and walk northeast for a few minutes to get here. Visit nearby landmarks, such as the Colon Cemetery, the National Theater of Cuba and the Almendares Park.