Habana Vieja (Old Havana)This historic section of Cuba's capital was founded in 1519, and
for centuries, was an important naval port of colonial Spain. Being
in such a strategic position, the city was targeted by pirates and
fought over on numerous occasions, and the ruins of the defensive
walls that surrounded the city can still be seen. The Old City now
also contains museums, hotels, restaurants and shops lining the
original cobble-stoned streets. Surrounding the picturesque squares
(plazas) are beautiful restored colonial buildings with grand
facades, and striking churches that form a magnificent setting for
the late afternoon chess and domino games and salsa music. Plaza de
Armas was the seat of power in Cuba for 400 years, from where the
Spanish Captain's General, US military governors and Cuban
president were based, and today is home to an interesting book
market. During the years of Prohibition in the United States,
Habana Vieja turned into a playground for Americans who flocked
here for the cheap l |
