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Havana

"Habana" and "Havanese" redirect here. For the dog breed, see Havanese dog. For other uses, see Havana (disambiguation) and Habana (disambiguation).

Havana (/həˈvænə/, US also /həˈvɑːnə/; Spanish: La Habana [la‿aˈβana] ⓘ ) is the capital and largest city of Cuba. As the heart of La Habana Province, Havana serves as the nation's primary port and its principal economic and cultural hub. It is the most populous city, the largest by area, and the second largest metropolitan area in the Caribbean region.

Etymology

The city's name, Havana, is believed to originate from the Taíno name "Habaguanex," the cacique of a local indigenous group. The substitution of 'v' for 'b' in the English version is attributed to a linguistic phenomenon known as betacism, a common shift in Spanish dialects. The name "Havana" has found its way into literature, and it also denotes a type of cigar, a color, and a breed of rabbit, though its primary association remains with the vibrant Cuban capital.

History

16th Century

Founded by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar in 1514 on the southern coast of Cuba, near the present-day town of Surgidero de Batabanó, the initial settlement struggled to thrive. By 1519, the Spanish had established a more advantageous location on the north coast, adjacent to what was then known as Puerto de Carenas—a natural bay that would become Havana's bustling harbor. This new site was officially named San Cristóbal de la Habana, honoring both Saint Christopher, the city's patron saint, and the indigenous name.

Initially a vital trading port, Havana became a frequent target for buccaneers, pirates, and French corsairs. The city was famously sacked and burned by the French corsair Jacques de Sores in 1555. These persistent attacks prompted the Spanish Crown to invest in substantial fortifications, not only to deter pirates but also to assert greater control over the lucrative trade with the West Indies and to curb the rampant contrabando that flourished under the restrictive trade policies of the Casa de Contratación in Seville. Havana's strategic position made it a crucial hub for ships returning to Spain from the New World, and the thousands of vessels that gathered in its bay fueled the local economy through demands for supplies and repairs. In recognition of its growing importance, King Philip II of Spain officially granted Havana the title of "City" on December 20, 1592.

17th Century

The 17th century marked a period of significant expansion for Havana. The city saw the construction of numerous civic and religious buildings, largely utilizing the island's abundant wood. These structures often blended Iberian architectural styles with distinct Canarian influences. Notable constructions from this era include the convent of St. Augustine, El Morro Castle, the chapel of the Humilladero, the San Lázaro hospital, and the Santa Teresa monastery. However, this growth was not without its challenges. In 1649, a devastating epidemic, believed to have originated in Cartagena, Colombia, claimed the lives of a third of Havana's population. To further bolster its defenses, construction began on the city walls in 1674, a project that would continue until 1740.

18th Century

By the mid-18th century, Havana had blossomed into a major center of maritime activity. Its port facilities were unparalleled in the Spanish New World, making it the largest and most active shipyard, complete with a vital drydock. This strategic importance drew the attention of the British during the Seven Years' War. In 1762, a formidable British fleet captured the city, opening up trade with their North American and Caribbean colonies and briefly altering Cuban society. However, the Peace of Paris returned Havana to Spanish control in exchange for Florida. Under Spanish rule once more, Havana underwent a transformation into one of the most heavily fortified cities in the Americas, rivaling Cartagena, Colombia. Construction commenced on the massive Fortress of San Carlos de la Cabaña, one of the largest Spanish fortifications in the New World. In 1796, the remains of Christopher Columbus were transferred to Havana from Santo Domingo, where they remained until 1898.

19th Century

The 19th century saw Havana evolve into a flourishing and fashionable metropolis, fueled by burgeoning trade between the Caribbean and North America. Its theaters hosted distinguished performers, and a prosperous middle class commissioned opulent classical mansions, earning Havana the moniker "Paris of the Antilles." The city embraced technological advancements, with the introduction of its first railroad in 1837, connecting Havana to Bejucal and revolutionizing sugar transport. Cuba became the fifth country globally to possess a railway system and the first in the Spanish-speaking world. Cultural life thrived with the construction of institutions like the Tacón Theatre. The persistence of slavery until 1886 drew interest from Southern American states, including plans by the Knights of the Golden Circle to establish a 'Golden Circle' territory centered on Havana. The city's physical expansion was also marked by the demolition of its defensive walls in 1863, allowing for urban growth. As the century drew to a close, Havana became an unwitting focal point of history with the sinking of the U.S. battleship Maine in its harbor in 1898, an event that served as the immediate catalyst for the Spanish–American War.

20th Century

The dawn of the 20th century ushered in the Republic of Cuba, with Havana serving as its political and administrative heart. The early years under Tomás Estrada Palma's presidency were noted for their administrative integrity. While Havana possessed a disproportionate share of Cuba's hospital beds, healthcare access remained a significant issue, particularly in rural areas. The Havana Conference in 1940 saw American nations pledge to defend their territories against the Axis powers during World War II. By 1958, Cuba was considered relatively advanced, though economic disparities persisted, exacerbated by extensive government regulations and labor union privileges. The city experienced significant social and political upheaval following the revolution of 1959. Under Fidel Castro's government, social services were prioritized, but the expropriation of private property and the subsequent U.S. embargo led to widespread shortages that deeply affected Havana. The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 triggered a severe economic downturn, plunging Cuba into its "Special Period."

21st Century

In the 21st century, Havana has seen efforts to revitalize its tourism sector, with foreign investment contributing to the renovation of historic buildings like the former Manzana de Gomez into the luxurious Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana. Restoration projects have focused on key areas of Old Havana, aiming to preserve its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. However, the scale of restoration remains limited to a small fraction of the historic district. A rare and devastating tornado struck Havana on January 27, 2019, causing significant damage and loss of life, an event rated EF4 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, marking one of the most powerful tornadoes recorded in Cuba.

Administration

Havana functions as both a city and a province, governed by a city-provincial council headed by a governor. The current governor is Yanet Hernández Pérez, a member of the Communist Party of Cuba. The administrative structure emphasizes decentralized governance through Municipal Assemblies, whose delegates elect members to the Provincial Council. While elections are competitive, with at least two candidates per position, the Communist Party holds significant influence. The city's autonomy is limited, with considerable reliance on the national government for budgetary and policy direction. Since 2010, Havana's borders have been redefined, bordering the newly formed Mayabeque Province to the south and east, and Artemisa Province to the west, following the abolition of the former rural La Habana Province.

Geography

Havana is situated on Cuba's northern coast, overlooking the Straits of Florida, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Atlantic Ocean. The city sprawls westward and southward from its bay, which is divided into three principal harbors: Marimelena, Guanabacoa, and Antares. The Almendares River winds through the city from south to north, emptying into the Straits of Florida. Havana's topography is characterized by gently rising low hills, notable for elevations like the limestone ridge supporting the La Cabaña and El Morro fortifications, which command a view of the eastern bay. To the west, a similar rise hosts the University of Havana and the Castillo del Príncipe (Havana).

Climate

Havana experiences a tropical climate, moderated by oceanic influences. Classified under the Köppen climate classification as a tropical savanna climate (Aw), it borders on tropical rainforest (Af) and tropical monsoon (Am) types. Average temperatures range from a mild 22 °C (72 °F) in January and February to a warm 28 °C (82 °F) in August. Freezing temperatures are exceptionally rare. Rainfall is most abundant from June to October, with a drier period from December to April, averaging around 1,200 mm (47 in) annually. While hurricanes occasionally affect the island, they typically strike the southern coast, with Havana experiencing less direct impact than other regions.

Municipalities

Havana is administratively divided into 15 municipalities, each further subdivided into wards known as consejos populares. These municipalities are: Playa, Plaza de la Revolución, Centro Habana, La Habana Vieja, Regla, La Habana del Este, Guanabacoa, San Miguel del Padrón, Diez de Octubre, Cerro, Marianao, La Lisa, Boyeros, Arroyo Naranjo, and Cotorro.

Demographics

As of the 2012 census, Havana was home to 2,106,146 inhabitants, representing 19.1% of Cuba's total population. The city boasts an average life expectancy of 76.81 years. Historically, Havana experienced rapid population growth in the first half of the 20th century, reaching one million by 1943. However, growth has since moderated due to policies promoting balanced development, a low birth rate, emigration, and controlled domestic migration. Havana's demographic profile, with a significant proportion of elderly residents, mirrors that of a developed nation.

Ethnic breakdown

The ethnic composition of Havana, based on the 2012 census categorizing by "skin color," is as follows:

  • White: 58.4% (predominantly of Spanish descent)
  • Mestizo or Mulatto: 26.4%
  • Black: 15.2%
  • Asian: 0.2%

The relatively low proportion of mestizos in Havana, and Cuba generally, is attributed to the near-extinction of the indigenous Taíno population during the early Spanish conquest. The Cuban government actively manages internal migration to Havana, citing infrastructure strain. A notable population of internal migrants, nicknamed "palestinos," originates from the eastern Oriente Province. Havana also has a significant Chinese community, descendants of Cantonese laborers brought in the mid-19th century. While estimates vary, pre-revolution Chinese populations numbered over 200,000, with descendants now potentially reaching 100,000. A smaller Russian population, primarily women married to Cubans, also resides in the city.

Religion

Roman Catholics constitute the largest religious group in Havana, which serves as one of Cuba's three metropolitan sees. The city is also home to a minor basilica and several national shrines. Havana has hosted papal visits from Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis. The Jewish community, once numbering over 15,000, has significantly diminished since the revolution, with only a few synagogues remaining. Current estimates place the Jewish population in Havana at around 1,500.

Economy

Havana's economy is diverse, encompassing manufacturing, construction, transportation, and communications, alongside burgeoning sectors like biotechnology and tourism. Historically, its economy was built on trade and the slave trade, later evolving into a renowned resort destination. Despite efforts to decentralize industry, Havana remains a major industrial center, producing light manufactured goods, pharmaceuticals, rum, textiles, and the world-famous Habanos cigars. While other ports have developed, Havana remains Cuba's principal port, handling 50% of the nation's imports and exports. Tourism has become the primary economic driver, particularly since the post-Soviet era. However, the rise of small businesses has faced challenges due to the low average income of local residents.

Commerce and Finance

Following the revolution, Havana's capitalist economy was replaced by a state-controlled system. Most businesses are state-run, though small private enterprises exist. Banking is centralized under the National Bank of Cuba. The Vedado district emerged as Havana's financial center in the late 1990s, featuring major banks, corporate offices, and hotels.

Tourism

Havana has long been a major tourist destination, particularly between 1915 and 1930, attracting visitors from the United States seeking leisure opportunities during Prohibition. The imposition of the trade embargo in 1961 led to a sharp decline in tourism, which only began to recover significantly in 1989. Cuba's foreign investment code of 1982 paved the way for hotel development and a gradual increase in visitor numbers. Havana also serves as a prominent health tourism destination, offering treatments for various conditions. In 2010, the city welcomed over 1.1 million international tourists.

Poverty and Slums

Decades of economic hardship, particularly the Special Period of the 1990s, have impacted Havana. The government lacks an official definition of poverty, instead referring to "at-risk" or "vulnerable" populations. Substandard housing, often referred to as cuartería (large old mansions subdivided into rooms) or shanty towns, is concentrated in municipalities like Old Havana and Centro Habana. Residents in these areas generally have access to the same public services as those in more affluent neighborhoods. While a significant portion of Havana's housing stock requires repair, efforts have been made to improve conditions, though building collapses remain a concern due to the humid coastal climate and general urban decay.

Transport

Airports

Havana is primarily served by José Martí International Airport, located south of the city center, which is the main hub for Cubana de Aviación and connects Havana to international destinations across the Americas, Europe, and Africa. Playa Baracoa Airport handles some domestic flights.

Rail

Cuba's national railway system, Ferrocarriles de Cuba, connects Havana to all provinces. The Havana Suburban Railway serves the metropolitan area, with key stations including Central Rail Station. Plans for a Metro system in Havana, influenced by Soviet Union designs, were initiated in the 1980s but were abandoned after the Soviet collapse. The Hershey Electric Railway provides an interurban connection to Matanzas.

Tramway

Havana operated a tram system until 1952, which evolved from a horsecar system in 1858 to an electrified network by 1900. Declining ridership and financial difficulties led to its closure, with remaining cars sold to Matanzas.

Roads

Havana possesses an extensive road network, including major avenues and highways like the Autopista Nacional (A1). However, the infrastructure suffers from a lack of maintenance. Key motorways include the A1, A4, and Via Blanca.

Education

The Cuban government provides free and compulsory education at all levels. The University of Havana, founded in 1728, was once a leading institution in the Western Hemisphere. Since the revolution, all educational institutions have been nationalized, and new universities, such as the Higher Learning Polytechnic Institute José Antonio Echeverría, have been established. The Cuban National Ballet School is one of the world's largest ballet institutions.

Landmarks and Historical Centers

Culture

Symbols

The coat of arms of Havana features three castles representing the city's historical defenses and a key symbolizing its role as the "gateway to the New World."

Architecture

Havana showcases a diverse architectural landscape, ranging from 16th-century military fortifications to modernist structures. Spanish colonial architecture is prominent, with military structures like La Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana and Castillo del Morro reflecting the city's strategic importance. Old Havana is a testament to various influences, including Mudéjar architecture, Spanish, Italian, Greek, and Roman. The Havana Cathedral exemplifies Cuban Baroque style.

Neoclassicism emerged in the 1840s, influencing residential buildings like the Aldama Palace. The Vedado district, developed from 1859, features notable Neoclassical designs. The city's Art Deco heritage is evident in buildings like the Bacardi Building. Modernist architecture transformed Havana in the mid-20th century, with iconic structures such as the Tryp Habana Libre (formerly Habana Hilton) and the FOCSA Building.

Visual Arts

The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de La Habana houses extensive collections of Cuban and international art. The Ludwig Foundation of Cuba supports contemporary Cuban art. Notable artists associated with Havana include Federico Beltrán Masses, Víctor Manuel García Valdés, and Wifredo Lam.

Performing Arts

The Gran Teatro de La Habana is a historic venue, home to the National Ballet of Cuba. Alicia Alonso, a celebrated prima ballerina assoluta, was instrumental in shaping the company's international reputation.

Radio and Television

Havana was an early adopter of broadcast media. CMQ, a prominent radio and television station, played a significant role in Cuban broadcasting during the 1940s and 1950s. Cuba was the first Latin American country to introduce television, with regular commercial broadcasting commencing in 1950.

Festivals

The Havana Film Festival, or International Festival of New Latin American Cinema, is a major annual event held in December, dedicated to promoting Latin American filmmakers.

Health

Cuba's healthcare system, which provides free access to all residents, is largely managed from Havana. While facing shortages of supplies and equipment due to economic challenges, the system achieves remarkably low infant mortality rates, comparable to many developed nations. Hospitals in Havana are run by the national government, with citizens assigned to specific facilities.

Sports

Baseball is a highly popular sport in Havana, with the local team Industriales being a dominant force in the Cuban National Series. The city hosted the 11th Pan American Games in 1991 and the 1992 IAAF World Cup in Athletics. Havana also hosted the Centrobasket tournament multiple times. The city has several large sports stadiums, including the Estadio Latinoamericano.

Notable People

A considerable number of notable individuals have hailed from or been associated with Havana, contributing to its rich history and culture.

Sister Cities

Havana maintains sister city relationships with various cities worldwide, fostering cultural exchange and cooperation.

See Also

Notes

  • The term "cuartería" refers to a type of housing where large old mansions or hotels are subdivided into rooms, often housing numerous families.
  • The demolition of the Plaza del Vapor in 1959, under Fidel Castro's directive, paralleled similar urban renewal projects in other major cities.