Plaza de la Catedral
La Habana
Havana Cathedral, officially known as Catedral de la Purísima Concepción de María, is a prominent Catholic cathedral located in the Plaza de la Catedral in Old Havana, Cuba. Constructed between 1748 and 1777 by the Jesuits, it serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of San Cristóbal de la Habana. The cathedral is notable for its distinctive Baroque facade with asymmetrical bell towers and coral stone walls embedded with fossilized marine life. The interior features a Latin cross plan with a central nave, side aisles, and eight chapels, housing significant artworks including sculptures, paintings, and frescoes by artists such as Giuseppe Perovani and Jean Baptiste Vermay. Historically, it held the remains of Christopher Columbus from 1796 until their return to Spain in 1898. The cathedral is a key part of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, and reflects a blend of religious, cultural, and architectural heritage unique to Cuba.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Havana Cathedral is during the morning hours to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Visitors should explore the surrounding Plaza de la Catedral to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Havana. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Guided tours can enrich the visit by providing historical context and art insights.
Faits intéressants
- •The cathedral's coral stone walls contain fossilized marine fauna and flora, showcasing its unique construction material.
- •Christopher Columbus's remains were kept in the cathedral for over a century before being returned to Spain.
- •The cathedral features asymmetrical bell towers, a rare architectural characteristic in Baroque churches.
- •The interior houses frescoes by Italian artist Giuseppe Perovani depicting significant biblical scenes.
- •The cathedral is part of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1982.
Histoire
The site of Havana Cathedral was originally a swamp drained and used as a naval dockyard before construction began.
The Jesuits initiated building the cathedral in 1748 on the site of an earlier church, completing it in 1777, after their expulsion from Cuba in 1767.
In 1796, the remains of Christopher Columbus were interred here until 1898, symbolizing the cathedral's colonial importance.
In the early 19th century, Baroque altars were replaced by Neoclassical ones, reflecting changing architectural tastes influenced by Bishop Espada.
Guide du lieu
Baroque Facade and Bell Towers1748-1777
The cathedral's front features a distinctive Baroque facade with asymmetrical bell towers and coral stone walls embedded with fossilized marine life, reflecting its unique construction and artistic style.
Central Nave and Side Chapels1748-1777
Inside, the cathedral has a Latin cross layout with a 15-meter wide central nave, two side aisles, and eight chapels containing important religious artworks and sculptures.
Artworks and Frescoes18th-19th century
The cathedral houses paintings by Jean Baptiste Vermay, frescoes by Giuseppe Perovani including 'The Delivery of the Keys' and 'The Last Supper', and sculptures such as the 1632 Saint Christopher statue by Martín de Andújar Cantos.