Other examples of majestic creativity and of great value are the Capitanes Generales Palace, which was the headquarters of the colonial governments, The Cathedral with neo-classic interiors and its marvelous baroque architecture. Many eclectic buildings were erected, full of gold and silver, which constituted a true work of art, among them the Convent of Bethlehem, Santa Clara Convent, Santa Teresa of Jesus Church, and the Holy Angel Custodio Church. The Spanish constructed a majestic city with sophisticated architecture, narrow streets, elegant plazas, colossal palaces and beautiful avenues, exquisite interior patios, stain glass windows. As part of it, Havana was surrounded by a wall that protected the city. Constantly attacked by pirates, the metropolis was forced to construct the largest defensive system in America. In the 18th century Havana was the third largest city in the so-called new world. That extraordinary development made the Spanish authorities decide to change the capital from Santiago de Cuba in the east of Cuba to Havana in 1553.

Due to its characteristics of port city and its location at the entrance of the Gulf of Mexico, rapidly it became an important commercial and communication center between the old and new world.

In 1519 San Cristobal de la Habana was transferred to its current place. Havana was established in 1514 in the islands southern coast what is today the town of Batabanó. Number 1 Cuba destination, the beautiful City of Havana.

The dark heart of old havana