Il Adagio
November 2, 2018MODERN HAVANA IN AN AMERICAN CLASSIC
November 2, 2018Port: Havana, Cuba
Discover the remarkable history of Havana, Cuba through its massive buildings and notable structures dating back to the 15th century. Colonial Life and modern times are all part of this unforgettable tour of Cuba’s capital, Havana.
After departing from the pier, ride through Old Havana where you will have the opportunity to learn about some of the most iconic sites and the history of this charming municipality. You will have a chance to see age-old buildings such as the Iglesia de San Francisco de Paula, one of Havana’s most charming churches, fully restored in 2000 and now used as a concert hall. Among the most significant buildings here, you will also see Train Central Station, the main railway terminal in Havana and the largest train station in Cuba, considered a national monument for its architectural and historical values.
At the entrance of Havana Harbor stands El Castillo De Los Tres Reyes Del Morro, built by the Spanish in 1589 and completed in 1640 to protect the city from buccaneers and pirates. In 1762, the castle was captured by the British under Sir George Pocock. Discover the military architecture of Havana from the 16th to 19th century on a visit to this historical fort.
On your way to El Cristo de La Habana, you will see another military fortress originally built to fill a weakness in the city’s defenses – Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña.
Then witness the majestic representation of El Cristo de La Habana, only four decades old, which forms part of the landscape that characterizes the entrance to the Havana harbor. Standing at 65 feet tall, weighing 320 tons, consisting of 67 different pieces, and made of white Carrara marble, the monument was built in Italy by Cuban artist Jilma Madera, and inaugurated on December 25, 1958. History tells that the artist did not use a model as her inspiration but was inspired by what she felt was the definition of masculine beauty. However, legends say that she was inspired by the physique of an old lover.
On your way to the city’s famous Malecón seafront, one of the city’s most meaningful and essential Cuban main roads, you will pass through the Túnel de La Habana (Havana’s Tunnel), which links the historic forts on the eastern bank with the ornate Spanish architecture in Old Havana.
From Havana Vieja to the atmospheric streets of Vedado in a comfortable air-conditioned bus you will get a view of the Nacional Hotel, the American Embassy, the University of Havana, the Christopher Columbus Cemetery and the famous corners, parks and plazas of this striking city.
Discover historical sites like the Civic Square, which was later, renamed the Revolution Square in 1959. You will also walk through the University of Havana, located in the Vedado district of Havana. This is oldest university in Cuba, founded in 1728 and one of the first to be founded in the Americas.
Our guide and expert on Cuban architecture will demonstrate the transition from Colonial to Modern times in this panoramic view of the city.
On your way back to the pier you will drive by the Green Tile House, Miramar, the Business Center, and palm tree-lined Fifth Avenue, considered one of the most beautiful avenues in Havana and initially called Avenida de las Américas, here, you will feel the pulse of the emerging economy. You’ll continue on through the Fifth Avenue Tunnel, which connects the Calzada Street, in Vedado, to the Santa Ana River in Santa Fe. The origin of this famous avenue goes back to the early 20th century as a result of the immigration of Havana’s wealthy classes to the west beyond the opening of the Almendares River.
Note: This tour involves minimal walking, mostly on asphalt. The tour has a few stops around the city but is ideal for guests with limited mobility. Guests are advised to bring their cameras.
Adults from $105 USD*
Children from $105 USD*
Approximate Duration: 3 hours
Tour Code: HAV_01 |
Activity Level 1 – Involves walking over relatively level terrain, possibly some cobblestone, gravel or a few steps. Comfortable shoes are recommended.