Few are those that know that in the land that today the Havanan Capitol is, a swamp existed, dredged and converted in the first botanical garden that had the capital at the end of the 19th century.



Neither is it known that the definitive construction the Capitol was many time delayed because its high cost on one hand; and to the political indecisions, on the other. Then, on March 1926, the construction of the Capitol began finally.

The grand structure was unveiled on Thursday May 20 just after mid day with the attendance of the president of the Republic of Cuba and the rest of the government cabinet ruling the island at that time.

Eugenio Raynieri Piedra a very well-known and prestigious architect at the time; led the planning and construction joined by the best professionals in the Construction Industry in Cuba. By the time this project was finished it had already taken 17 millions out of the National Budget.

To any pedestrian, the dome of the Capitol of Havana can easily draw his/her attention, fifth in the world of Renaissance style that, for its proportions and silhouettes, it remembers to San Pedro's Basilica, in Rome. The dome is the second higher point of the city, preceded by the Monument to Mart in the Revolution Square.

A striking aspect of this building is its faade of impressive neoclassic style, with 17 ionic columns of granite and in its three majestic mahogany access doors that lead to the core of the Capitol. All three doors are ornamented with impressions evoking happenings of the history of Cuba.

The Capitol of Havana counts over seven decades since its opening in 1926. The colossal construction is regarded as the third in relevance in Latin America for its monolithic structure and certainly first in Cuba.

There is a huge gem stone embedded on its floor marking the Kilometer No 0 of The National High Way that was also finished together with this building and today it can be admire by everyone who visit it. This huge diamond also separates the two wings on each side of the hall under the dome.

It also houses the 3rd biggest statue inside a building in the world and it represents The Republic of Cuba. Angelo Zanelli an Italian artist sculpted it inspired on a famous Cuban model. It was unveiled in 1929, in the Hall of the Lost Steps (Saln de los Pasos Perdidos).

Stopping over at the Capitol of Havana is just a remarkable journey back in history. In its quarters you will discover lots of true stories and anecdotes, concealed behind its pillars. Your holiday will not be fulfilled without a touch of History in Havana and this building certainly is a must.