October 29th, 2009 - Havana’s Capitolio
One of the most astonishing buildings in Havana is The Capitolio. Since it was built in the 1930’s is has become jewel of the Cuban architecture and the pride of the locals and the joy of the tourists.
Only few connoisseurs of the Cuban history know that the very first Botanical Garden in Cuba in the 19 Century was located in the land today occupied by the Capitol building.
The development project of the Capitol did not begin until 1926 due to a great deal of political instability and complexity of the project it self. Once it started it only took 3 years to be finished into the same shape that visitors can admire today.
The imposing edifice opened its 20 feet doors to the public on Thursday May 20. Every government institution was invited to the unveiling ceremony including the President of the Republic of Cuba and other prestige politic personalities of those times.
The group that took part in the planning of the construction of the Capitol was also joined together by engineers and Cuban architects under the capable hands of Eugenio Raynieri Piedra of a renowned architected famous for his artistic designs. The total cost of the project reached the 17 million dollars.
To any pedestrian, the dome of the Capitol of Havana can easily draw his/her attention, fifth in the world of Renaissance style that, for its proportions and silhouettes, it remembers to San Pedro’s Basilica, in Rome. The dome is the second higher point of the city, preceded by the Monument to Mart in the Revolution Square.
Another detail that attracts is the central piazza, supported by 17 ionic columns of granite. In it, the three big brass doors that give access to the main floor and the bas-reliefs stand out due to its beauty.
The Capitol of Havana has more than 7 decades of having been founded already. The monumental building that does not have any similar in other parts of the world and that it is considered as the third in importance for their monolithic construction, constitutes the only of its type built in this century.
From the Capitol of Havana -that is not national -, the kilometer 0 of all the highways of the country begins. It was designed so that in it the two chambers of the legislative body of the Republic worked all the sessions until 1959.
It also houses the 3rd biggest statue inside a building in the world and it represents The Republic of Cuba. Angelo Zanelli an Italian artist sculpted it inspired on a famous Cuban model. It was unveiled in 1929, in the Hall of the Lost Steps (Saln de los Pasos Perdidos).
Visiting the Capitol of Havana is just an amazing trip to the past. It was built to resemble the one in the United States, but in its rooms you will find a lot of history hidden behind its columns. Your vacation will be complete when you experience this visit. Do not miss the chance.
For further information on Havana Hotels please visit Holidays to Cuba web site by J. M. Maurette
