La Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña, colloquially known as La Cabaña, is an 18th-century fortress situated at the entrance of Havana Bay. This fortress, along with La Punta Fortress and the Castle of the Royal Force of Havana, served as the city's defense against any enemy or pirate attacks. It is located on a hill next to the Morro Castle and is the largest military building constructed by Spain in America, covering an area of 700 m long by 240 m wide.
Today, La Cabaña serves as a cultural and museum complex. It houses various exhibits and documents, including testimonies of Che Guevara. The fortress is also linked to various customs and traditions, such as the Cañonazo de las Nueve, a cannon shot fired at 9:00 p.m. to symbolize the closing of the city walls, a ritual that continues to this day.
One of the traditions that continue at La Cabaña is the firing of a cannon every night at 9 p.m. This ritual, known as the Cañonazo de las Nueve, is a symbolic homage to the past when the cannon shot announced the closing of the city walls. The ceremony is performed by soldiers dressed in 18th-century style outfits and is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to the fortress.
History & Anthropology Castle Historic house War Person & Artist
4MW2+R5R, Havana
No exhibitions in Fort of San Carlos of the Cabin have been found.
Fort of San Carlos of the Cabin has 1 rating.
The Fort of San Carlos of the Cabin, located in Havana, Cuba, offers visitors a glimpse into the city's colonial history. This 18th-century fortress, situated on a hill overlooking the entrance to Havana Bay, provides panoramic views of the city and the sea.
The fort's architecture is well-preserved, showcasing impressive military engineering from the Spanish colonial era. Visitors can explore the thick stone walls, cannons, and various rooms that once served as barracks and storage areas. The museum within the fort houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that detail the history of Havana's defense system and Cuba's maritime past.
While the fort offers significant historical value, some visitors note that the exhibits could benefit from more detailed explanations and better translations. The climb to reach the fort can be steep, which may be challenging for some visitors, but most agree that the views from the top are worth the effort.
The museum's opening hours and maintenance can be inconsistent, which occasionally leads to disappointment for visitors. Additionally, some find the entrance fee a bit high compared to other attractions in Havana.
Overall, the Fort of San Carlos of the Cabin is a solid choice for history enthusiasts and those interested in colonial architecture. It provides an informative experience and excellent photo opportunities, though it may not be at the top of every visitor's must-see list in Havana.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
Discover museums near Fort of San Carlos of the Cabin in or around Havana.