SMOKE RINGS IN CUBA

Cuban Architecture

One of the many features of Cuban architecture is the harmonious juxtaposition of different architectural styles, displayed by an impressive collection of buildings authored by both world famous local and international architects.

The uniqueness and appeal of Cuban architecture stems not only from its quality but also from its scale. Regardless of the style, Cuban architecture is uniquely Cuban and adaptive to the Cuban enviroment and experence as seen in its adaption to the climatic conditions of the island as demonstrated by the porches and galleries of the palaces, homes and public buildings which provide the necessary shelter from the sun and the rain but whose style reflect the rhythm of the music and the vibrancy of Cuba’s street life.

Cuban architecture boasts every style from the Renaissance as shown in the colonial stone fortresses, through the Moorish style of homes and palaces which testify to the eight century presence of the Moors in Spain, to the Baroque style of palaces and churches. Cuban architecture reflects the Neoclassic, the Eclectic, the Art Nouveau or Catalonian Modernism, the Art Déco and Streamline Moderne style influenced by South Beach in Miami, New York City and France, and Modern Architecture embraced since the mid 1940s.

Havana, a world recognized Caribbean Metropolis with European influences, was spared the damage of the global urban renewal and overdevelopment of the second half of the 20th century it maintains intact its traditional urban fabric which together with the famous preservation efforts grant the city a great attraction for architects, artists, historians, and lovers of harmony and beauty.

Source: Sr. Julio Cesar Perez – Arquitecto y Urbanista

Whilst I have pinched the text from the internet, all the photos were taken by Llyris Berry, Joan Mauchline, Rob Stock and Lois Kuhle. Forgive me the visual overload, but there is so much architectural delight in Cuba!

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