Havana City: 5 Facts about Most Colorful City in the World
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VIVA – The city was founded in southern Cuba in 1514 but was moved to its current location next to Puerto de Carenas. Old Havana was a busy trading port because of its natural bays. Therefore, it is called the city with the second highest population in Havana.
Havana Cuba or also known as La Habana in Spanish is one of the most colorful and full of life places. Havana is not only the capital city but also the largest city, major port, and leading commercial center in Cuba.
Here are 5 facts about Havana City, Cuba:
1. Havana More than 500 Years Old
Havana was founded by the Spanish in November 1519 along the natural harbour of the Bay of Havana. The Spanish would stop here whenever they travelled between the New World and the Old World.
The city became a shipbuilding center in the 17th century. Unfortunately, most of the buildings were destroyed in the 20th century. Different types of people pass through Old Havana such as explorers, entertainers, natives and pirates. It is estimated that there are about 3,000 buildings in this part of the city.
2. Havana Has an Amazing Historical Building
Modern Havana is divided into three cities namely Old Havana, Vedado and the newer suburban districts. Old Havana, characterized by narrow streets and overhanging balconies.
Most of the buildings are historic and are a true representation of the architectural design of the 16th and 19th centuries. Old Havana covers 3 square miles with Spanish colonial structures, baroque church and neoclassical style buildings.
This part of the city is famous for its lush gardens and cobblestoned squares. Locals love to spend their time in Habanero because of the trees and green spaces.
3. The Architecture in Old Havana is similar to Spain
The city of Old Havana bears similarities to Cadiz and Tenerife in Spain. That's because Spain uses the same architectural designs as those found in Spain.
The buildings in Old Havana have several ancient monuments, forts, monasteries, palaces and churches. The Cuban government has done extensive work in preserving and restoring the city. Renovations have turned Old Havana into a tourist attraction. The city is also known as the de facto Mayor of Old Havana.
4. Be a UNESCO Heritage Site
Old Havana is a UNESCO world heritage site. The city is defined by the Rumba riff, quaint cobbled squares and streets, retro cars, historic forts, museums, and beautifully restored architectural gems.
This historic city is accessible on foot and has several tourist attractions and colorful old buildings. The narrow lane is lovely, walking past it mingling with the locals. There are many coffee shops in the square where Cuban Baroque meets Art Nouveau.
5. The French Army Burnt the City and the Spanish Rebuilt It
In 1555, Old Havana was destroyed by the French known as corsair Jacques de Sores who took control of the city by defeating the defenders. Jacques destroyed the city and burned it to the ground. Then the Spanish army was brought in to rebuild the city walls and protect it.
Construction of the Castillo de la Real Fuerza began in 1558 which was the first fortress built and supervised by the engineer Bartolomé Sanchez. Most of the buildings here are designed in baroque and neoclassical architecture. Its official center is the Plaza de Armas.
