Housed in the spectacular Cuban Baroque Palacio de los Capitanes, the Museo de la Ciudad unveils Havana's fascinating history. Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) | Phil Bartle / photo modified Thanks to the citizens of Havana and government support, the Plaza Vieja has been restored and is now one of the most popular squares in Old Havana.Īn eclectic mix of restored buildings - from Art Nouveau to Cuban Baroque - preside at its edges, and a small 18th-century fountain bubbles at its center.Īn architectural highlight here is the 18th-century Casa del Conde Jaruco, which displays some of the city's most beautiful stained-glass windows.Īfter admiring the scene, you can climb the 35-meter tower of the camera obscura for fantastic city views, explore the small museum dedicated to the history of card playing, or relax at one of the many cafés.ĥ. Sadly, in the 1950s, construction engulfed the plaza and transformed it into an underground car park.

Originally laid out in the mid 16th century, the square was once used for military exercises and was also a popular marketplace.

Plaza Vieja has experienced many incarnations, but is now one of Havana's most vibrant gathering spots.

Old town square havana