Plaza de la Catedral is an 18th-century square in Old Havana, framed by colonial buildings and the Baroque façade of Catedral de San Cristóbal de la Habana. Stop to look closely at the cathedral’s two unequal towers, then explore the surrounding mansions and the Colonial Art Museum. The cobbled plaza is a useful starting point for walking between Old Havana’s historic squares, with restaurants and museums nearby. Go early if you want a quieter look; the square draws plenty of people later in the day.
The cathedral and its unusual façade
Catedral de San Cristóbal de la Habana gives the square its name and its most prominent landmark. Its Baroque façade dates to the 18th century, with columns, carved details and two towers that are not the same width. The façade curves inward toward the central entrance, while its shaped pediment gives the roofline an undulating outline.
The cathedral was completed in 1777. Coral was used in parts of its stonework, where fossilized marine life can be seen in the walls. Inside are paintings and historical sculptures. The cathedral’s interior is open to visitors, though access and activities can depend on services taking place.
The buildings around the square
The compact cobbled plaza is enclosed by colonial-era buildings, including former mansions and palaces. Their façades, balconies, arcades and ironwork sit alongside the cathedral’s Baroque details. The square is one of Old Havana’s five historic plazas, each with its own architectural character.
The area’s history predates its present appearance. The low-lying ground was once marshy and was later used as a naval dockyard. The square took its current form in the 18th century, when the cathedral and nearby residences helped shape the area. Its buildings now provide a close-up view of Old Havana’s colonial architecture.
Museums and a walking route
The Colonial Art Museum is among the nearby places to visit, and the surrounding streets connect the plaza with other museums, restaurants and historic landmarks. Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja and Plaza de San Francisco are also part of Old Havana’s historic-square circuit. Walking between them is a practical way to see the old center’s different architectural settings.
The plaza is lively, with local vendors and musicians among the activity. Its popularity can make a quiet visit harder later in the day, so arrive early if you want time to look at the buildings without as much activity around you. If you visit the cathedral during Mass, treat the service as a place of worship and avoid disrupting it.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Plaza de la Catedral free to visit?
The square is free to visit. The supplied information also describes the cathedral as free to enter.
What is the main sight at Plaza de la Catedral?
Catedral de San Cristóbal de la Habana is the square’s main landmark. Look for its Baroque façade and two unequal towers.
When is the best time to visit Plaza de la Catedral?
Go early in the morning for a quieter visit, before the square gets busier.
What else can you see near the plaza?
The Colonial Art Museum and other historic squares, including Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja and Plaza de San Francisco, are nearby.
