Havana
Geography
Havana, officially known as La Habana, is the capital city of Cuba, the largest city in the Caribbean, and one of the most culturally rich urban centres in the world. The city extends mostly westward and southward from the bay, which is entered through a narrow inlet and divides into three main harbours: Marimelena, Guanabacoa, and Atarés. The sluggish Almendares River traverses the city from south to north, entering the Straits of Florida a few miles west of the bay.
History
Havana was founded by the Spanish in the 16th century and due to its strategic location, it served as a springboard for the Spanish conquest of the Americas, becoming a stopping point for treasure-laden Spanish galleons returning to Spain. The city's architecture mirrors its rich cultural history, from the 16th-century Castillo de la Real Fuerza and the 17th-century San Salvador de la Punta Fortress, to the 18th-century Cathedral of Havana and the 19th-century Great Theatre of Havana.
Architecture
Havana's architecture is a mix of Baroque, Neoclassical, Art Deco, and Modernist styles, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. The city's historic centre, known as Old Havana, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its mix of architectural styles, from the colonial castles of the Spanish era to the modernist high-rises of the 20th century.
Economy
Havana's economy is diverse, with traditional sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture complemented by growing sectors such as tourism, biotechnology, and information technology. The city is the economic hub of Cuba and its economy has been growing steadily over the past few years. Havana's economy is closely linked to its physical infrastructure, with the Port of Havana being a key economic driver.
Culture
Havana is a vibrant city with a rich cultural life. The city is known for its music, dance, and visual arts, as well as its festivals, including the Havana Film Festival and the Havana Jazz Festival. The city is also home to several world-renowned cultural institutions, including the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of the Revolution, and the Great Theatre of Havana.