Palace of Captain-Generals

If you came to Cuba as a tourist, then your list of attractions must include the most visited museum in Havana. It is called the "Palace of Captain-Generals" and is one of the most interesting places. The palace is a museum that preserves history and a unique work of Baroque architecture.

At the end of the sixteenth century, Parrochial Mayor Church was located on this site. But in 1741 there was an explosion of the ship, which was anchored in the capital's harbor. As a result, the building suffered severe damage, which is why in 1776 it was decided to dismantle the sanctuary. The palace was built in 1780. An interesting fact is that during its construction in Cuba, 8 governors were replaced.

The road near the palace was made of wood. This was done in order to reduce the sounds of passing vehicles and not disturb the peace of the ruler. The facade of the building is made entirely of limestone, common in this area, and strewn with small shells.

Each tier of the palace pleases the eye with elegant forms and bright colors. Surrounded by the first floor you can see a beautiful arcade, and on the windows of the second impressive stained glass. If you look closely, you can see a strange feature. The frames of the first tier are decorated with bars. This was done not for nothing, but for safety. After all, there was a prison there, and then the defense services.

Luxury balconies with stained glass windows, stylish arcades and a small courtyard with a famous marble statue of Christopher Columbus corresponds to the highest level of Cuban colonial style. The statue of Columbus is surrounded by thick and well-groomed greenery, on which beautiful peacocks walk. Birds are not afraid of people, let them touch themselves and delight visitors. Near one of the walls there is a monument to the first captain-general who inhabited this palace.

The palace is almost in perfect condition preserved amazing interiors of the XIX century. There is no doubt that almost all the furniture that is presented in the rooms is the original of the time. Governors and other dignitaries used these items on a daily basis, and tourists have the opportunity to see a piece of history for themselves. The main attractions of the museum are the oldest statue in Cuba, the cenotaph, and the Mirror Hall of the XIX century, which is decorated with mirrors of Venice.

Powerful wooden desks, comfortable sofas, cabinets, which still preserved books, massive curtains, walls filled with paintings. All this will delight every person with its splendor. Halls for receptions, dining rooms, living rooms - any room is easily guessed, because all items have remained in their places. It may even seem that the palace is still inhabited by noble gentlemen and beautiful ladies.

The fact that this is a museum is indicated only by the showcases located in each room, which house various objects and historically important artifacts that date back to the period of colonization of Cuba by the Spanish. Surprisingly well preserved rooms and many works of art.

It is interesting to note that in one of the rooms of the palace on the wall hangs the head of a boar, who was shot by Fidel Castro himself, so do not ignore this remarkable exhibit. In the process of getting acquainted with the museum-palace, do not forget to visit the hall with an old children's amazing performance.

Of course, since it is a palace, it must have a real throne! And in this historically wonderful place it is. This particular copy was prepared and made specifically for the arrival of a Spanish queen. But the throne was never used for its purpose because the Queen was unable to visit the island. But thanks to it, tourists can see this work of art.

Also in the palace itself, you can not miss their attention small details of the interior. For example, beautiful vases, fragile statuettes, antique boxes, elegantly executed watches – it is impossible without emotions to consider these luxurious and pretentious exhibits. Subtle and so exquisite painting causes irresistible respect for the master who created it.

How do you get there? It's very simple. Popular to visit, the Palace of the Captain Generals is located on Armory Square, which is located in Old Havana. You can get to it in different ways. But the most common is by numerous taxis or rented cars. Because this way of transportation, getting to the right place, in addition to the palace, you will see dozens of historical buildings, fortresses and temples.

Palace coordinates: 23°8'23"N 82°21'0"W

The Historical Museum of Havana is quite a popular place among tourists, so it is always crowded. Many people either drive themselves or hire an individual guide driver.