El Capitolio
La Habana
The National Capitol of Cuba, commonly known as El Capitolio, is a landmark public edifice located in Havana, Cuba. Commissioned by President Gerardo Machado and constructed between 1926 and 1929 under the direction of architect Eugenio Rayneri Piedra, it was built on the site of a former railroad terminal. The building's design, while often compared to the United States Capitol, is unique and inspired by European architecture such as the Panthéon in Paris and Bramante's Tempietto. El Capitolio features a massive stone-clad dome that was once the third highest in the world and remained Havana's tallest point until 1956. The building is famed for housing the Statue of the Republic, a 15-meter tall bronze statue covered in 22-carat gold leaf, making it one of the largest indoor statues globally. The grand entrance is marked by a wide granite staircase flanked by imposing statues symbolizing Work and Tutelary Virtue. Inside, the Hall of Lost Steps and two semicircular chambers historically housed the Cuban Parliament and Chamber of Deputies. The building also contains patios that provide natural light and ventilation, featuring additional artwork such as The Rebellious Angel statue. A unique feature is the replica diamond embedded in the main hall floor marking Cuba's Kilometre Zero, with an intriguing history involving the original diamond’s theft and return. After extensive renovations completed in 2019, El Capitolio remains a testament to Cuba's architectural grandeur and political history, attracting visitors with its impressive scale and artistic heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the building's architectural details and statues. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. Guided tours can enhance the experience by providing historical context. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. The best time to visit is outside of major Cuban holidays to enjoy a less crowded atmosphere.
Interesting facts
- •El Capitolio's dome was the third highest in the world at the time of its construction.
- •The Statue of the Republic inside is the third largest indoor statue globally, covered with 22-carat gold leaf.
- •A replica diamond embedded in the main floor marks Kilometre Zero for Cuba; the original diamond was stolen and mysteriously returned.
- •The building was constructed by over 5,000 workers in just over three years.
- •The grand staircase is flanked by two 6.5-meter tall statues by Italian sculptor Angelo Zanelli.
History
El Capitolio was commissioned in 1926 by President Gerardo Machado and constructed over three years, finishing in 1929.
It was built on land previously occupied by the Villanueva Railway terminal.
At the time of completion, it was Havana's tallest building and featured the world's third largest indoor dome.
Over the decades, it served as Cuba's seat of government until the 1950s.
The building underwent significant renovation culminating in 2019 with the restoration of its iconic dome.
Throughout its history, El Capitolio has symbolized Cuban political power and architectural ambition.
Place Guide
The Dome and Cupola1926-1929
The massive stone-clad dome, inspired by the Panthéon in Paris and Bramante's Tempietto, was the highest point in Havana until 1956. It features a steel frame constructed in the United States and is a defining architectural feature of El Capitolio.
Statue of the Republic1929
A 15-meter tall bronze statue covered with 22-carat gold leaf, sculpted by Angelo Zanelli in Rome and assembled inside El Capitolio. It represents a young woman with a helmet, shield, and lance, symbolizing the Cuban Republic.
Main Entrance Staircase (La Escalinata)1929
A grand granite staircase with 56 steps and 12 Ionic granite columns over 14 meters tall. Flanked by two large statues symbolizing Work and Tutelary Virtue, both created by Angelo Zanelli.
Hall of Lost Steps (Salón de Pasos Perdidos)1929
Named for its remarkable acoustic properties, this hall features inlaid marble floors and gilded lamps. It leads to the semicircular chambers that formerly housed the Cuban Parliament and Chamber of Deputies.
Patios and The Rebellious Angel Statue
Two central patios provide natural light and ventilation to the offices. The north patio features the statue The Rebellious Angel, donated after the building's inauguration.
Contact
Phone: (07) 8603411
