Plaza Vieja
The most lively of the four main squares in Old Havana, surrounded by colorful colonial buildings, with a craft brewery, cafés and a camera obscura viewing room.
Plaza Vieja was built in 1559 and was once a site for slave auctions and markets. After restoration, the Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings around the square have regained their vivid colors. The craft brewery Factoría Plaza Vieja, on one corner, is popular for its house-brewed beer. On the top floor of the building in the northeast corner, a camera obscura (Cámara Oscura) uses optical lenses to project a 360° live view of Old Havana. The square is free to enter. The light is best in the evening, and you can easily walk on to Plaza de San Francisco and Plaza de Armas.
Opening hours
Open all day; camera obscura approx. 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Plaza de San Francisco de Asís
- Havana Club Rum Museum
- Hotel Ambos Mundos
- Calle Obispo
- Plaza de Armas & Castillo de la Real Fuerza
- La Bodeguita del Medio
- Almacenes San José Artisans' Market
- Havana Cathedral & Plaza de la Catedral