Sightseeing

Plaza de Armas

📍 Arms Square, Old Havana, Havana, Cuba

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Introduction

Arms Square is the oldest square in Old Havana, and the origin of the city's history—since the Spanish founded the city in the 16th century it has been the city center, witnessing Havana's centuries of change. This tree-shaded, elegant square is surrounded by extremely important historic buildings: most striking is the Castle of the Royal Force (Castillo de la Real Fuerza) on one side—a 16th-century fortress with a moat, one of the oldest stone castles in the Americas; its bronze weathervane "La Giraldilla" atop the tower has become a symbol of Havana. Also the former colonial governor's palace, the Captain General's Palace (now the City Museum) and other solemn colonial buildings. In the center, shaded by trees, stands a statue of Cuban founding father Cespedes; around the shade, a lively secondhand book market gathers year-round—stalls selling old books and "revolucion"-themed posters have a special charm (check editions when buying). Strolling this ancient, green square, visiting the surrounding castle and colonial palaces, feeling Havana's historical weight as the city's origin—a place full of stories.

✨ Highlights

City origin

Havana's oldest square; the city center and origin since its founding.

Oldest stone castle

Castle of the Royal Force—one of the oldest stone fortresses in the Americas.

Havana symbol

The castle's bronze weathervane La Giraldilla—now a city symbol.

Shady book market

Tree-shaded square with a lively secondhand book market around.

🛈 Practical Info

→Venues：Castle, City Museum etc. have separate hours; enter inside.

→Best time：Visit venues by day; cool and pleasant in the shade.

→Book market：Check editions and prices when buying old books.

→Combine with：With the four squares like Cathedral Square, slow tour.

→Cash：Bring cash for venue tickets and spending.

💡 Tips

• The Castle of the Royal Force is one of the oldest stone fortresses in the Americas—don't miss it.

• The shady secondhand book market has charm; check editions when buying.

• Link the four squares (Cathedral Square etc.) for a slow old-city tour.

• Venue hours and tickets follow the official notice.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Plaza de Armas?

The Castle of the Royal Force is one of the oldest stone fortresses in the Americas—don't miss it. The shady secondhand book market has charm; check editions when buying.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.