Old Havana and its Fortification System
Cuba ·
Description
Old Havana is a time capsule with a salsa soundtrack. Peeling Baroque palaces, colonial squares with lion fountains and fortresses that resisted pirates create a setting where '57 Chevys seem like props. The Malecón is the city's living room, and on every corner a musician improvises Cuban son.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
Havana preserves the Americas' most extensive Spanish colonial ensemble. The fortification system was colonial Caribbean's most important. The mix of architectural styles reflects four centuries of history.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
For preserving the Americas' most extensive Spanish colonial ensemble with exceptional fortifications.
It was inscribed in 1982 under criteria (iv) and (v).
US embargo since 1960 prevented importing new cars; Cubans keep the old ones running.
Very safe for tourism; violent crime is rare.
Depends on country; US citizens have special restrictions.