The Internet Travel Guide "Getting to Know Cuba"

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Architecture

In contrast to the Aztecs, Mayas and Incas, the autochtonous people of Cuba did not build palaces or temples. The bohío, the simple, thatched farmhouse primarily made of royal palms, is the architectural heritage left by the native inhabitants of the island.

Façade in Santa Clara

In the 16th century, the Spaniards brought their Iberian architecture with them and introduced to Cuba the use of stone for construction purposes. Municipal buildings and churches, palaces and Patrician homes are situated around park-like squares. The term 'colonial style' refers to the period between 1492 and 1898. During those 400 years, there were different architectural types, including, for example, the neo-classical style, which beautified Cuban cities with arcades, terraces and pillars.

Façade in Camaguey

In the 16th and 17th centuries, many palaces were built in the Moorish Mudejar style, characteristically with two floors, a horseshoe arch and an inner courtyard or patio. This design was intended to provide enough light, shade and fresh air. Furthermore, it was supposed to make it easier for people to chat with their neighbours. The mamparas, swinging double half-doors, always let in a fresh breeze. Introduced in the 17th century, slatted shutters on windows and doors permitted the air to circulate and at the same time kept the harsh light out. Tall glassless windows extending from the floor to the ceiling and covered only by wooden shutters provided enough fresh air.

Che's portrait at Revolution Square

Barrotes, rippled, lathe-turned bars, served to keep out burglars. Originally, these bars were made of wood but starting in the 19th century, they were elaborately fashioned out of wrought iron. Behind these barrotes, the Cubans like to sit in their rocking chairs and watch the comings and goings in the street. The narrow balconies on the first floor are mostly covered by a roof and supported by pillars. The typical ornate balcony railings as well as the flat, ochre coloured roofs of these buildings evoke the atmosphere of medieval Spain.

Façadein Havanna

In contrast to the colonial style, socialist Cuban architecture is boring and bleak. Apartment buildings constructed after the revolution are Spartan and functional because aesthetics has become less important than providing housing for everyone. This new construction type did, however, make it possible to do away with the slums of the pre-revolutionary period.