Revolution Square
Revolution Square

Revolution Square

Plaza de la Revolución · Havana, Cuba

4.5(7,331)
City Square
View Location

Feel the Beating Heart of Cuba

Located in Havana, the capital of Cuba, Revolution Square is not only one of the largest city squares in the world but also an absolute witness to modern Cuban history. Standing here, under the gaze of José Martí and in front of the steel portrait of Che Guevara, you can feel the glory and vicissitudes of the Cuban Revolution.

Pro Tips

  • Best Lighting: It is recommended to visit in the early morning or evening. The square has no shade at noon, the sun is extremely glaring and not ideal for portraits.
  • Sun Protection: Be sure to bring sunglasses, a hat, and apply sunscreen. It is not convenient to buy drinking water around the square, so bring your own bottled water.
  • Transportation: It is some distance from the Old Town (Habana Vieja). It is highly recommended to take the Hop-on Hop-off bus or a classic car taxi, and the driver will drop you at the best photo spot.

Highlights

  • José Martí Memorial: A 109-meter star-shaped tower, the tallest building in Havana. Inside is a museum like a time corridor, and the top observation deck offers a 360° panoramic view of Havana.
  • Che Guevara Giant Portrait: An iconic steel artwork embedded on the outer wall of the Ministry of Interior building, with his immortal quote carved at the bottom: 'Hasta la Victoria Siempre' (Until Victory, Always).
  • Camilo Cienfuegos Portrait: Located on the Ministry of Communications building, added in 2009, echoing Che Guevara, engraved with 'Vas bien, Fidel' (You're doing well, Fidel).
  • Classic Car Photo Spot: Colorful vintage cars are parked along the edge of the square year-round, making it a perfect background for retro Havana photos.

About Revolution Square

Revolution Square is the most important historical landmark and political cultural center in Havana, Cuba, carrying the glorious history of the Cuban Revolution and national spirit. It is a must-visit place for every tourist visiting Havana.

Basic Information

Official Name

Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolución)

Attraction Type

City Square / Historical Landmark

Country

Cuba

City

Havana, Cuba

Plus Code

4JF7+3FQ

Google Rating

4.5/5 (7,331)

Address

4JF7+3FQ, Av. Paseo, La Habana, Cuba

Historical Timeline

1920s

Concept Born

📍 Concept Born

French urban planners proposed the initial concept of building a 'Plaza Cívica' (Civic Square).

1950s

Officially Built

📍 Officially Built

The square and the José Martí Memorial began construction in 1953, and the main structure was completed in 1958, becoming the new core of the city.

1959

Revolutionary Renaming

📍 Revolutionary Renaming

After the victory of the Cuban Revolution, it was officially renamed 'Plaza de la Revolución', becoming the political center where Fidel Castro delivered speeches to millions of people.

💡 Visitor Guide Tip

When visiting, you can start from the center of the square and visit the José Martí Memorial, then ascend to the observation deck for a panoramic view of Havana; then visit the museum inside the memorial to learn about the life and thoughts of Cuba's independence hero José Martí; then head to the surroundings of the square to admire the giant portraits of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos on the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Communications buildings. Finally, stroll on the square and feel the solemn atmosphere of this important landmark that carries modern Cuban history.

Tour Route

Classic 1.5-Hour Route:

1

Start: Arrive at the center of the square and take a panoramic photo of the giant portraits on the two buildings from the open space.

2

Explore: Enter the José Martí Memorial and visit the biographical museum on the first floor.

3

Ascend: Take the elevator straight to the 109-meter-high observation deck to take in the coastline and urban texture of Havana.

4

Finale: Return to the edge of the square and take a photo with a retro convertible classic car to leave a classic Cuban memory.

Additional Tour Tips

  • Morning or evening visits are recommended for the best lighting for photos.
  • There is an entrance fee for the memorial interior, check opening hours in advance.
  • The square is large, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Opening Hours

Square Opening Hours

Open all day (public square)

Memorial Museum Opening Hours

Tuesday to Saturday

Sunday and Monday

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (please verify latest information)

Important Notes

Recommended to verify latest information before visiting

Daytime visits offer the best experience

Ticket Information

José Martí Memorial

Museum and observation deck require tickets, please inquire on-site for prices

Square Area

The square itselfFree and open to the public
Guided ToursInquire on-site if guided tours are available

Tour Tips

Bring sun protection and water, the square area has strong sunlight exposure.

For the latest updates on ticket prices and opening hours, please refer to the Official Cuba Ministry of Tourism Information

Transportation

From the Airport

Approximately 18 km from José Martí International Airport (HAV). Take a taxi or airport bus to the city center, then transfer to Revolution Square.

Driving

The square is located in central Havana with convenient transportation, but parking nearby can be difficult. Taxis or public transport are recommended.

Public Transport

You can take Havana's buses or taxis. The square is a major city landmark and all drivers know the location.

Walking Tour

The square itself can be explored on foot, and there are many historical buildings worth visiting in the surrounding area.

Other Means

Havana has taxis and bike-sharing services, choose according to your needs.

Travel Tips

Revolution Square is an important place to understand modern Cuban history and revolutionary culture. Daytime visits are recommended, with sufficient time to visit the interior of the memorial.

Visitor Reviews

Review information can be viewed via Google Maps (external link).

C
Carlos Rodríguez
3 months ago

A place full of historical significance. Standing on the square, you can feel the great spirit of the Cuban Revolution and the weight of history.

M
María Fernández
1 month ago

Amazing historical landmark. The José Martí Memorial is spectacular, and you can overlook the beautiful scenery of all Havana from the observation deck.

J
John Smith
2 weeks ago

Very meaningful place to gain deep understanding of Cuban history and culture. The Che Guevara portrait is impressive.

A
Ana López
Over 6 months ago

An important part of Cuban history. The atmosphere of the square is moving, a must-visit place in Havana.

R
Roberto Martínez
1 year ago

Great historical and cultural experience. The memorial architecture is wonderful, and there are many places worth exploring nearby.

S
Sophie Dubois
3 months ago

Beautiful and solemn square, full of the charm of Cuban history. The Che Guevara portrait is unforgettable, definitely worth a visit.

L
Luis Gómez
2 months ago

Interesting historical venue. Experience Cuban revolutionary history up close, guided tours are recommended for deeper understanding.

E
Elena Castro
1 month ago

An important landmark of Havana. Revolution Square is an important place to understand modern Cuban history, definitely worth experiencing.

Location & Map

4JF7+3FQ, Av. Paseo, La Habana, Cuba