Overview:

Old Square (Plaza Vieja) is a historic square located in the heart of the Old Town of Havana, Cuba. The square was laid out in 1559 as part of the original plans for the city and is the oldest plaza in Havana. It is surrounded by multiple historical buildings, including the Palacio del Segundo Cabo, which now houses the Havana City Museum. The area is also known for its vibrant art scene, with multiple galleries and performance spaces, including the Casa de la Música, which often showcases local talent. The square is also a popular area for tourists, featuring many restaurants, cafes, and shops. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cuba
Prominent Features:

1. Centrally located around the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales: Old Square is located at the heart of the old city of Havana, right around the government buildings which served as the seat of the Spanish governors who controlled the city since the 16th century. 2. Colonnades and statues: The huge columns of the colonial government buildings encircle the square, thoroughly decorated with sculptures such as those of the Kings of Spain. 3. The Catedral de San Cristóbal de la Habana: The oldest church of Havana lies right in the middle of the square, giving it a unique and majestic atmosphere. 4. Numerous historic buildings featuring Baroque and Neo-Classical designs: Although most of them have been turned into museums, many buildings bear witness to the past of the Spanish colonial rule in Havana, with their perfectly preserved Baroque and Neo-Classical designs. 5. Colorful and lively atmosphere: A corner of Old Havana that still remains vibrant and full of life, Old Square is a great spot to admire the hustle and bustle of the everyday life in the city. 6. Plenty of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops: If you are looking to buy souvenirs or to have a drink and some food, this is the place. Old Square is surrounded by myriad shops and establishments, offering goods and services from all types of cuisines and styles. This national monument of Cuba portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Old Square (Plaza Vieja) in Havana, Cuba is one of the oldest urban spaces in the city. It was laid out in 1559 by the British settlers who founded Havana. The square originally had a strict four block layout with sides measuring 80 meters. The square contained an open market, known as the Plaza de Mercaderes, which served as the center of daily life for many years. Over the years, Old Square has been the site of numerous public events and festivities. In 1645, it received the name of Plaza Nueva, when it was used for a military encampment during the Castilian War. During the 1700s, the square developed an urbanist aesthetic with a rigorous plan of rectilinear paths, fountains, and sculptures. In the late 1800s, Old Square transferred the name of Plaza de Armas to the Plaza de San Francisco de Asis (now known as Plaza de la Catedral), and Plaza Vieja was created. At that time, it was re-adapted for a variety of public activities and it was where the May Day parades and the annual fiestas were held. In the late 1950s, the Plaza Vieja saw a period of neglect as Castro's revolution began to take hold. It was not until 1975 that the square was restored and remodeled, and it soon became a favorite gathering place for locals and tourists. Today, Old Square is an attractive destination filled with European-style facades, ample patios, and terraces with lush vegetation. It houses a diverse array of cafes, bars, and boutiques, as well as a grassy park where visitors can relax. Old square stands as a testament to the evolution of Havana over the centuries, providing a unique and vibrant link to the city's rich past. You must visit one of these historical places in Cuba on your Cuba tour

Interesting facts:

1. The formation of Old Square (Plaza Vieja) dates back to 1559 when Havana was founded and was originally known as “Plaza Nueva.” 2. Old Square (Plaza Vieja) has been used for hundreds of years as an entertainment area: concerts, bull fights, parades, public ceremonies and other big events have been held here. 3. At the center of the square stands a sculpture called Vigia, a monument to a Spanish firefighter in the colonial days. 4. In 1836, part of the Plaza Vieja was used for the execution of Cuban independence heroes Carlos Manuel Céspedes and José María Rodríguez, following the failed Negrin rebellion. 5. In the 20th century, the plaza was converted into a car park and used for nightlife activities. 6. Plaza Vieja was declared a National Heritage Site of Cuba in 1996. 7. In 2003, Plaza Vieja was restored to its original state by Cuban architects, as a symbol of Havana’s rich history and culture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cuba with your friends and family.