Plaza de la Revolución: Havana’s Revolution Square Guide (2026)
A visitor’s guide to Plaza de la Revolución in Havana — one of the world’s largest public squares, home to the iconic Che Guevara mural, the José Martí Memorial, and the political heart of Cuba since 1959.
1. Plaza de la Revolución: Overview
Plaza de la Revolución (Revolution Square) in Havana is one of the largest city squares in the world, covering approximately 72,000 square meters (nearly 18 acres). Located in Havana’s Vedado district, it has been the political and administrative center of Cuba since the Revolution of 1959 and remains the site where the Cuban government stages its most important public events.
Key Takeaways
- 72,000 m² — one of the largest public squares in the world.
- Originally called Plaza Cívica (Civic Square), renamed after the 1959 Revolution.
- Home to the iconic Che Guevara iron mural on the Ministry of the Interior.
- The José Martí Memorial tower (109 m) is the tallest structure in Havana.
- Historically hosted rallies of over one million people addressed by Fidel Castro.
2. History & Origins of Plaza de la Revolución
The plaza was originally conceived in the 1920s by French urban planner Jean-Claude Forestier as part of Havana’s ambitious expansion plan. Built on the Loma de los Catalanes (Catalans’ Hill), the design drew inspiration from Paris’s Place de l’Étoile, with several avenues radiating outward toward the Río Almendares, Vedado, and Parque de la Fraternidad in Centro Habana.
Known as Plaza Cívica through the 1950s, the square was renamed Plaza de la Revolución after Fidel Castro came to power in 1959. It quickly became the stage for the Revolution’s most important moments, including Castro’s marathon speeches to crowds estimated at over one million citizens. The surrounding government buildings — the Communist Party headquarters, various ministries, and the National Library — reinforce its role as Cuba’s administrative nerve center.
3. Key Landmarks at Plaza de la Revolución
- José Martí Memorial & Tower: A 109-meter star-shaped tower with a museum at its base and an observation deck offering the best panoramic views of Havana.
- Che Guevara Mural (Ministry of the Interior): The iconic iron wire sculpture of Che with the inscription “Hasta la Victoria Siempre” (Ever Onward to Victory).
- Camilo Cienfuegos Mural (Ministry of Communications): A similar iron sculpture of revolutionary hero Camilo Cienfuegos, added in 2009.
- Biblioteca Nacional José Martí: Cuba’s national library, flanking the eastern side of the square.
- Teatro Nacional de Cuba: The national theater, located on the square’s southwest corner.
- Central Committee of the Communist Party: The seat of Cuba’s ruling party occupies the northern side of the square.
4. The Che Guevara Mural at Plaza de la Revolución
An Icon of Revolution
The massive iron wire sculpture of Ernesto “Che” Guevara on the facade of the Ministry of the Interior is one of the most photographed images in Cuba. Based on the famous 1960 photograph by Alberto Korda, the mural was created by sculptor Enrique Ávila González and installed in 1993. Beneath the portrait, the words “Hasta la Victoria Siempre” are inscribed in iron lettering.
A matching mural of Camilo Cienfuegos was added to the Ministry of Communications building in 2009, bearing his famous quote “Vas bien, Fidel” (You’re doing fine, Fidel). Together, the two murals frame the square’s western side and create one of the most recognizable political landscapes in the world.
5. José Martí Memorial & Tower
The José Martí Memorial predates the Revolution, having been completed in 1958 during the Batista era. The 109-meter tower is the tallest structure in Havana and is shaped like a five-pointed star when viewed from above. At its base sits a 17-meter white marble statue of José Martí, Cuba’s national hero and the intellectual architect of Cuban independence.
- Museum: The base contains exhibits on Martí’s life, writings, and legacy. Free entry.
- Observation deck: The elevator ride to the top offers 360-degree views of Havana. Small admission fee (approx. 5 CUC equivalent).
- Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:30 AM–4:30 PM. Closed Sundays.
6. Tips for Visiting Plaza de la Revolución
- Best time: Early morning for photographs (fewer crowds, better light on the murals). The square faces west, so the Che mural is best lit in the afternoon.
- Duration: 1–2 hours to see the square, visit the memorial museum, and ascend the tower.
- Getting there: A 10–15 minute taxi ride from Habana Vieja, or a 30-minute walk from the Vedado waterfront. Classic car tours usually include a stop here.
- Shade: The square is vast and open with minimal shade. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Photography: Wide-angle lenses recommended to capture the scale. The murals are best photographed from the center of the square.
- Events: The square is occasionally closed for government events, especially around May Day (May 1) and July 26 (Anniversary of the Revolution).
7. Nearby Attractions
- Universidad de La Habana: A 15-minute walk north, with its impressive staircase and the Aula Magna.
- Necrópolis de Colón: One of the most important cemeteries in Latin America, with elaborate mausoleums and sculptures. A 10-minute walk southwest.
- Vedado dining: Several excellent paladares are nearby, including El Cocinero and Atelier. See our Havana restaurants guide.
- Malecón: A 20-minute walk north reaches the Malecón seawall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Britannica — Plaza de la Revolución
- Atlas Obscura — La Plaza de la Revolución
- Lonely Planet — Plaza de la Revolución, Havana
- Havana City Guide (lahabana.com) — Plaza de la Revolución
Explore More of Havana
After visiting Plaza de la Revolución, walk to the Malecón for sunset, explore Havana’s best restaurants and paladares, wander through Old Havana, or check out all things to do in Havana. Browse hotels in Havana, check neighborhood safety, and verify your visa requirements. Use our Cuba Travel Hub to plan your next destination.