CubaPLUS Magazine

Havana, the resilient capital of Cuba, rises each day not only for its people but for the myriad travelers arriving from every corner of the globe. Its tourism sector remains indispensable—an inevitable force that flourishes despite the persistent economic challenges noted by the Ministry of Tourism (Mintur) and local travel guides. 

This is a poignant moment to connect with the Habaneros and explore the countless hidden gems of a city in a state of constant, vibrant motion. Recognized as one of the New 7 Wonder Cities of the World, Havana justifies this and many other accolades not merely through its beauty and dynamism, but through the enduring traditions of its people. Beyond any visible hardship, it is the spirit of life that prevails here.

The urban landscape, preserved through the dedicated efforts of the Office of the City Historian, Mintur, and various civic initiatives, has become a modern Babel—a bustling crossroads of languages, cultures, and shared understanding.

Officially founded in 1519 under the shade of a lush ceiba tree, Havana rapidly evolved into a cosmopolitan hub, drawing travelers eager to uncover its profound layers. The city serves as the "essence of essences," representing a diverse melting pot where Spanish and African roots intertwine with Chinese, Haitian, German, French, and Hebrew influences, among many others.

The Villa of San Cristóbal de la Habana, as is its formal name, was established on November 16, 1519, at Puerto Carenas, following an initial 1515 settlement on the island’s southern coast. Its bay became the strategic assembly point for the Spanish treasure fleet, gathering the riches of the Western Hemisphere for the voyage to the Metropole—trips guarded by warships under the constant threat of pirates and privateers of every stripe.

This immense historical wealth was recognized by UNESCO, which declared the city a World Heritage Site in 1982. As the nation’s capital, Havana spans 732 square kilometers across 15 municipalities. Its historic core, Old Havana, covers 4.5 square kilometers, with a 2.2-square-kilometer historical-recreational axis that remains its most compelling feature.

Architectural highlights include the 321-room Packard, the Prado y Malecón with 250 rooms, the luxurious Gran Hotel Manzana, and the Iberostar Selection La Habana—currently Cuba’s tallest building, standing 155 meters high with 42 stories.

Beyond the statistics, the commercial data, and the official reports, Havana shapes the spirit of all who inhabit or pass through it. It embodies a unique poetic resilience—an enduring grace that faces every difficulty with an unwavering smile.

(Taken from Prensa Latina)