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nuestra habana photographs: buildings around town page 1 of 10 |
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Outside of Habana Vieja, you can see the before and after effects of the restoration efforts. While a bit rundown, this old apartment building clings elegantly to its past. The photo on the right was taken about a block away. At one time, this neighborhood must have been pretty ritzy. |
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This is a prime example of socialism at work. What was once some foreign millionaire's pleasure palace, is now a center for the improvement of race relations. Note the doberman statuettes flanking the doors. Most nationalized mansions have been meticulously preserved. |
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A lovely, cool courtyard beats the heat in the old city. The style of this old colonial building reminded me of a hotel I stayed at in Andalucia. Notice the blue shutters on the second story. Islam brought this style of architecture to Spain, and the Spanish brought it to Cuba. |
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The place of arms… the Spanish set aside this square for military drills in 1582. Since then, the plaza has grown and shifted a bit. This section was not as tidy as other parts of Habana Vieja, but the scaffolding was up where it needed to be. |
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It's always a good idea to show solidarity with your socialist brethren. Many buildings and parks were named and/or re-named to honor like-thinkers in the economic sphere. This building is hidden somewhere in Havana's Chinatown… yes, they have a Chinatown. |
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Ahh… the Ministry of the Interior Building. Forgive the comparison, but I see this as being the Statue of Liberty of Cuba. If you're in Havana, don't miss it! I found it a bit more impressive than the monument to José Martí, which is just across the Plaza de la Revolución. Fidel's office is nearby too. |
