El Capitolio

Capitolio Nacional de La Habana

This imposing building, completed in 1929, has a 92-metre dome that anchors the city skyline. Colourful vintage cars gather in front, and it marks the starting point of Kilometre Zero for Cuba's highways.

The Capitolio was built in 1926–1929 under the dictator Gerardo Machado. It is often compared with the US Capitol in Washington, but its dome draws more inspiration from the Panthéon in Paris. It stands about 92 m tall and was once the tallest building in Havana. After the 1959 revolution, parliament was dissolved, and the building was long used by the Cuban Academy of Sciences and the Ministry of Science. It underwent major restoration in the 2010s, and since 2019 it has once again housed the National Assembly of People's Power. Highlights inside include the Statue of the Republic, a gilded bronze goddess about 17 m tall that stands directly beneath the dome and is one of the largest indoor statues in the world. A diamond replica set in the floor in front of her marks Kilometre Zero of Cuba's highways. On either side are the lavish Hall of Lost Steps (Salón de los Pasos Perdidos) and the former Senate and House chambers, with extravagant marble and bronze decoration. When open, you can join a guided tour of the interior (a few dollars, check on site). In front of the building, Paseo del Prado is a laurel-lined boulevard with marble benches, leading toward the Malecón. Nearby are the Alicia Alonso Grand Theatre (home of the Cuban National Ballet, with a richly ornate Baroque exterior), the Hotel Inglaterra, and Central Park. Pink and red convertible vintage cars gather here to offer rides, making it the starting point for photos and private city tours. The gate of Chinatown (Barrio Chino) is just west of the building.

Opening hours

Visits approx. 10:00–16:00 (closed during meetings and events; check on site)

Architecture · Landmark · Vintage cars · Kilometer zero

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