Habana

Habana, known in English as Havana, is the capital and largest city of Cuba. Located on the northern coast of the island along the Bay of Havana near the Straits of Florida, it functions as the country’s political, economic, and cultural center. The city proper has about two million residents, with a larger metropolitan area that includes several municipalities.

Founded by Spanish explorers in 1519 as San Cristóbal de la Habana, the city developed into a major port for the Caribbean and a key colonial administrative center. Its architecture reflects a blend of Spanish colonial styles and Caribbean influences. In the 19th and 20th centuries, districts such as Vedado and Centro Habana expanded, and Havana remained the capital after Cuba gained independence. After the 1959 revolution, the economy was reorganized under state control, with tourism and services becoming increasingly important.

Old Havana (Habana Vieja) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1982 for its well-preserved colonial architecture and fortifications. The historic core includes plazas such as Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de la Catedral, along with landmarks like the Cathedral of Havana, the Capitolio Nacional, the Morro Castle, and the Malecón seawall. The city is renowned for its music, dance, and visual arts, with distinct neighborhoods including Vedado, Centro Habana, and Miramar.

Infrastructure in Havana includes José Martí International Airport and the city’s port facilities, which support commerce and tourism. The climate is tropical, with a wet season in summer and warm temperatures year-round. The city faces challenges common to the country, including aging infrastructure and economic constraints, but remains a focal point of Cuban culture, education, and international tourism.