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Plaza de la Revolución
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Landmark
The Plaza de la Revolución in Havana is one of the largest public squares in the world and serves as the political heart of Cuba. Spanning approximately 72,000 square meters, the plaza was originally conceived in the 1950s during the presidency of Fulgencio Batista as the Plaza Cívica. The area is dominated by the José Martí Memorial, a 109-meter-tall star-shaped tower accompanied by a massive statue of the national hero. Opposite the memorial stand the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Communications buildings, famous for the iconic steel outlines of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos on their facades. Since the 1959 Cuban Revolution, the square has been the site of massive political rallies and historic speeches by Fidel Castro, often attended by over a million people. Beyond its political significance, the plaza is a major transportation hub and a venue for large-scale cultural events, including papal visits and international concerts. From the observation deck at the top of the Martí monument, visitors can enjoy a wide-open panoramic view of Havana and the Caribbean Sea. The architecture of the square reflects the monumental style of the mid-20th century and is an essential destination for anyone visiting the Cuban capital.
- Location: Cuba
- Top sights: National Theatre of Cuba · José Martí Memorial · Cuban pine forests
- Nearby: Santiago de las Vegas (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 24 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 30 | 29 | 23 | 33 | 64 | 108 | 83 | 108 | 102 | 87 | 45 | 30 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Plaza de la Revolución is a vast public square that you can enter freely at any time of day or night. There is no entrance fee and you can stroll around the entire plaza, observing the José Martí Memorial and the surrounding government buildings from the outside.
Typical hours
Since it is an open public space, the square does not have formal opening hours and remains accessible around the clock. That said, large political rallies or national celebrations may close parts of the area temporarily without advance notice.
Photography
Personal photography is permitted without restrictions across the entire square, so feel free to capture the memorial and architecture. For professional shoots or use of drones, you should apply for a permit from the local authorities in advance.
Time needed
A typical visit lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, just enough to walk the perimeter and take photos. If you wish to read all information boards and enjoy the atmosphere, plan for one hour.
Combine with
This square is close to other Havana highlights such as El Capitolio and the Museo de la Revolución. You can easily walk to the Malecón seafront promenade afterwards for a scenic coastal stroll.
Getting there
The square is located in the Vedado district, easily reachable by taxi from anywhere in Havana. Public buses (route P-1) also stop nearby, and it is a 15-minute walk from Old Havana.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to see the square relatively empty and capture great photos with soft light. Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes as the paved area can be hot in the sun.
Geography
Facts
- Total area of approximately 72,000 square meters.
- One of the world's largest public squares.
- The Martí Memorial tower stands 109 meters tall.
- Features the iconic steel outline of Che Guevara.
- Originally named Plaza Cívica until the 1959 revolution.
- Site of Pope John Paul II's historic 1998 mass.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Plaza de la Revolución (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Plaza de la Revolución?
A massive square in Havana, known for political rallies and the José Martí Memorial.
Whose portraits are seen on the buildings?
The steel outlines of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos on the ministry buildings.
Can you go up the José Martí Memorial?
Yes, there is an elevator to the city's highest observation deck.
When is the best time for photos?
In the morning or at sunset, when the light hits the portraits.
Is the square easy to reach?
Yes, it is centrally located and easily accessible by taxi or tourist bus.
Plaza de la Revolución: where is it located?
Plaza de la Revolución is located in Cuba.
Plaza de la Revolución: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Theatre of Cuba, José Martí Memorial, Cuban pine forests.
Plaza de la Revolución: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Plaza de la Revolución: why is it worth visiting?
The Plaza de la Revolución in Havana is one of the largest public squares in the world and serves as the political heart of Cuba.
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