Revolution Square
Havana's vast Revolution Square, a symbol of Cuban history with the iconic José Martí Memorial and revolutionary leader portraits.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Revolution Square
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Havana's vast Revolution Square, a symbol of Cuban history with the iconic José Martí Memorial and revolutionary leader portraits.
"The views from the top of the Martí Memorial are breathtaking, offering a true sense of Havana's scale."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this vast open square. :athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Revolution Square.
Bring Water & Sun Protection
Havana's sun is intense! Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface: Essential for enjoying Revolution Square.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

José Martí Memorial
Center of the square
Towering monument with a statue of Martí and an observation deck offering panoramic Havana views.

Che Guevara & Camilo Cienfuegos Facades
Ministry of Interior buildings
Iconic metallic portraits of revolutionary leaders adorning the facades of prominent buildings.

National Library
North side of the square
Impressive architecture housing vast collections, a testament to Cuba's commitment to education.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Havana's Revolution Square
Understand the Square's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
"Revolution Square" in Havana was actually built before the Revolution, and it was called "Civic Square"
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this vast open square. :athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Revolution Square.
Bring Water & Sun Protection
Havana's sun is intense! Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface: Essential for enjoying Revolution Square.
Climb the Memorial
For amazing city views, ascend the José Martí Memorial. :camerawithflash: The panoramic vistas are worth the climb.
Historical Context
Remember it was once Civic Square. :book: Understanding its past enriches the experience of Revolution Square.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this vast open square. :athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Revolution Square.
Bring Water & Sun Protection
Havana's sun is intense! Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface: Essential for enjoying Revolution Square.
Climb the Memorial
For amazing city views, ascend the José Martí Memorial. :camerawithflash: The panoramic vistas are worth the climb.
Historical Context
Remember it was once Civic Square. :book: Understanding its past enriches the experience of Revolution Square.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Revolution Square to be an iconic and historically significant landmark in Havana, particularly appreciating the imposing José Martí Memorial and the famous portraits of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos. While the sheer scale and historical weight are impressive, some find the square itself to be a bit stark and hot, especially during midday. The panoramic views from the memorial are consistently praised.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolución) is easily accessible by taxi or 'almendron' (classic American car taxi) from most parts of Havana. It's a central landmark, so most drivers will know exactly where to go. Walking is also an option if you're staying nearby in Vedado or Centro Habana, but be prepared for the heat.
Yes, Revolution Square is one of Havana's most recognizable landmarks. Its vast open space and the prominent José Martí Memorial make it hard to miss. It's a key point of reference for navigating the city.
While direct public buses might be less common for tourists, the classic car taxis ('almendrones') function as a form of shared public transport and are a very popular and affordable way to reach Revolution Square from various neighborhoods in Havana.
From Old Havana, a taxi (either a modern one or an 'almendron') is the most convenient and quickest option to reach Revolution Square. The journey typically takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
While Revolution Square is a significant site, it's more of a destination in itself rather than a typical starting point for exploring the main tourist attractions like Old Havana. It's best visited as a dedicated excursion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Revolution Square itself is a public space and entry is free. You can wander around the plaza and admire the monuments and building facades without any admission fee.
Yes, there is a small fee to ascend the José Martí Memorial tower for panoramic views of Havana. The price is usually quite reasonable and offers excellent photo opportunities.
Revolution Square is always accessible as it's an outdoor public space. However, the José Martí Memorial tower and its museum have specific operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check locally or aim for daytime visits.
The square is accessible at night, but it will be dark, and the memorial tower will be closed. It offers a different, quieter atmosphere, but for sightseeing and views, daytime is recommended.
Yes, many guided tours of Havana include a stop at Revolution Square, often focusing on its historical and political significance. You can also hire a private guide or simply explore on your own.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the base of the José Martí Memorial looking up, the metallic portraits of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos, and from the top of the memorial for panoramic cityscapes.
It can be challenging due to the vastness of the square and the intense sunlight. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal. Be mindful of other visitors and the scale of the monuments.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden hour light before sunset. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong shadows.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Cuba, especially in urban areas and around significant landmarks like Revolution Square. It's advisable to avoid bringing or flying drones to prevent issues with authorities.
Many visitors try to capture the scale of the square by standing at the base of the memorial and looking up. Another popular angle is framing the Che Guevara or Camilo Cienfuegos portraits with the surrounding buildings.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolución) was originally known as Civic Square and was inaugurated in 1959. It became a focal point for political rallies and speeches by Fidel Castro after the Cuban Revolution.
It's a symbol of the Cuban Revolution and a site of major political gatherings, national celebrations, and historical speeches. The iconic portraits of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos underscore its revolutionary significance.
The central monument is dedicated to José Martí, a national hero and poet who is considered the apostle of Cuban independence. The memorial includes a statue of Martí and a tall tower.
The large metallic portraits on the Ministry of Interior buildings depict revolutionary figures: Ernesto 'Che' Guevara on one and Camilo Cienfuegos on the other. They are iconic symbols of the revolution.
No, it was originally named Civic Square (Plaza Cívica) before the Cuban Revolution. Its name was changed to Plaza de la Revolución to commemorate the revolutionary movement.
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🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Portraits of Che and Camilo
These portraits serve as a constant reminder of the revolutionary ideals that shaped modern Cuba. Che Guevara, an Argentine Marxist revolutionary, became a symbol of rebellion worldwide, while Camilo Cienfuegos was a prominent commander in the Cuban Revolution. Their presence on these prominent buildings solidifies the square's role as a monument to revolutionary history and ideology. The sheer size and the way they are integrated into the architecture make them a unique and unforgettable sight for any visitor to Havana.
Ascending the José Martí Memorial
The ascent itself is an experience, often involving an elevator ride. Once at the top, the sheer scale of Havana unfolds beneath you. You can identify key landmarks, trace the city's layout, and truly appreciate the urban landscape. It's a fantastic spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, though midday offers a clear, albeit hotter, view. The memorial also houses a small museum dedicated to José Martí's life and work, providing further historical context to your visit.
Revolution Square's Historical Evolution
The square's significance lies not just in its architecture but in its role as a historical canvas. It has witnessed countless national celebrations, parades, and significant political events that have defined Cuba's post-revolutionary identity. The renaming to Revolution Square was a deliberate act to imbue the space with the spirit and ideology of the new regime. Understanding this historical transition from Civic Square to Revolution Square provides a deeper appreciation for the site's enduring importance in Cuban history and national consciousness.
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