El Capitolio (National Capitol Building)

Visitors to Havana who have been to Washington, D.C. may perform a double take when they view the stunning El Capitolio, which was inaugurated in 1929. This majestic structure rising above the city skyline is reminiscent of the American Capitol building, but its distinctive cupola is said to have been influenced by the Panthéon in Paris. The structure, which combines neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles, served as the seat of government until 1959, following the Cuban Revolution.

You can enjoy a guided tour of the recently renovated structure for a modest price, with headphones in the language of your choosing available. The vast passageways, gorgeous inlaid marble flooring, and huge dome are all highlights. A reproduction of the bronze sculpture Mercury, made by the 16th-century Florentine sculptor Giambologna, sits atop the dome. A copy of a 24-carat diamond can be found beneath the dome. This is said to be the site at which all roadway distances between Havana and other Cuban destinations are measured.

Google rating: 4.7/5.0
Address: 66 Cienfuegos, La Habana 10200, Cuba

Phone number: +53 7 8603411
Official site: https://www.tripcuba.org/el-capitolio-havana