Exterior of the Zaha Hadid-designed Lois & Richard Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art
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Wifredo Lam Center Havana

4.7
·20 reviews·Havana, Cuba

Discover contemporary Cuban and international art in a stunning colonial building in the heart of Old Havana.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Avoid early closures

CrowdLow
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Exterior of the Zaha Hadid-designed Lois & Richard Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art

Wifredo Lam Center Havana

Best Time

Mornings

Avoid early closures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover contemporary Cuban and international art in a stunning colonial building in the heart of Old Havana.

4.7
(20 reviews)

"Great place to stop for 30 minutes. Saw some interesting works!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏰ Check Hours Before You Go

This spot closes early, often before 3 PM. Confirm hours to avoid missing out!

🏛️ Admire the Building

It's housed in a beautiful colonial building with a charming patio. Enjoy the architecture!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Main exhibition halls

Discover cutting-edge Cuban and international contemporary art in a dynamic setting.

Colonial Architecture

Colonial Architecture

Exterior and patio

Admire the beauty of this historic colonial building, a charming backdrop for art.

Bauhaus Exhibition

Bauhaus Exhibition

Throughout the building

Experience 'The Whole World a Bauhaus,' a comprehensive exhibition exploring its influence.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Opening Hours

This center can close surprisingly early, often before 3 PM. Always verify current hours before your visit to avoid disappointment, especially if planning a late afternoon stop.

Renovation Status

The center has undergone renovations. Confirm it's open and accessible before heading there, as it may be closed or have limited exhibits during these periods.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Avoid early closures
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays before 3 PM
Why
Guaranteed access
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⏰ Check Hours Before You Go

This spot closes early, often before 3 PM. Confirm hours to avoid missing out! Reddit

🏛️ Admire the Building

It's housed in a beautiful colonial building with a charming patio. Enjoy the architecture! Reddit

🖼️ See Lam's Influence

While this center focuses on contemporary art, consider the Museo de Bellas Artes for more of Lam's work. Reddit

🚧 Verify Renovation Status

The center has been under renovation. Double-check if it's open before your visit. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

⏰ Check Hours Before You Go

This spot closes early, often before 3 PM. Confirm hours to avoid missing out! Reddit

🏛️ Admire the Building

It's housed in a beautiful colonial building with a charming patio. Enjoy the architecture! Reddit

🖼️ See Lam's Influence

While this center focuses on contemporary art, consider the Museo de Bellas Artes for more of Lam's work. Reddit

🚧 Verify Renovation Status

The center has been under renovation. Double-check if it's open before your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(20 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Wifredo Lam Center a worthwhile, albeit brief, stop to see interesting contemporary art housed in a beautiful colonial building. Some note its early closing times and suggest checking renovation status. It's seen as a modern complement to the more extensive Wilfredo Lam collection at the Museo de Bellas Artes.

"Great place to stop for 30 minutes. Saw some interesting works!"

Xiao Tan

"The foremost centre for contemporary art in Havana.
Right next to the Plaza Mayor, it's house in a beautiful colonial building.
It closes early so show up before 3 pm!"

Jorge Ayala-Isaza

"This museum is using Lam's name to bring in tourists to see contemporary art. Go to the Museo de Bellas Artas museum, the international part, to the the really great Wilfredo Lam art. Did he influence Picasso and Guernica? See for yourself. A world glass exhibition."

Rose and Mike Farmer

What People Like

Interesting contemporary art
Beautiful colonial building
Charming patio

What People Dislike

Closes early
Renovation closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wifredo Lam Center is located near Plaza Mayor, a short walk from the Cathedral in Old Havana. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the historic center. Taxis are also readily available throughout Havana. Reddit

Yes, it's situated in the heart of Old Havana, close to other major attractions like Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral, making it a convenient stop during your sightseeing. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The center often closes early, typically before 3 PM. It's crucial to verify the current opening hours before your visit, as they can vary. Reddit

Advance ticket purchase is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or inquire locally, especially if there's a special exhibition. Reddit

There is usually an admission fee, though specific prices can vary depending on current exhibitions. It's advisable to check locally for the most up-to-date pricing. Reddit

Information on accessibility can be limited. It's recommended to contact the center directly or inquire upon arrival regarding ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Art & Exhibits

The center primarily showcases contemporary Cuban and international art. It has hosted significant exhibitions, including one on the Bauhaus movement. Reddit

While the center is named after him and focuses on contemporary art, his own significant works are more prominently displayed at the Museo de Bellas Artes in Havana. Reddit

A visit can be quite brief, often around 30 minutes, especially if you're just doing a quick walkthrough. If there's a special exhibition you're particularly interested in, you might spend a bit longer. Reddit

Yes, the center frequently hosts temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary artists and themes, offering a dynamic and ever-changing collection. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Building & Atmosphere

The center is housed in a beautiful colonial building, featuring a charming patio. Its historic architecture provides a unique and aesthetically pleasing environment for the art. Reddit

Information about on-site dining facilities is scarce. It's best to explore the numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding Old Havana area for refreshments. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Wifredo Lam Center is an art museum, its focus on contemporary art might be less engaging for very young children. However, the beautiful colonial architecture and the charming patio could be interesting. If visiting with family, consider it a brief stop to appreciate the building and perhaps one or two visually striking pieces. It's best paired with other more interactive or visually stimulating activities in Old Havana. Reddit

🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs

For those fascinated by colonial history and architecture, the Wifredo Lam Center is a must-see simply for its stunning building. The intricate details of the colonial design and the ambiance of the patio offer a glimpse into Havana's past. While the art inside is contemporary, the structure itself is a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will appreciate the center's commitment to contemporary Cuban and international art. It's a great place to discover new artists and understand current trends. For a more complete picture of Wilfredo Lam's own artistic journey, a visit to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is also highly recommended. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Wilfredo Lam's Legacy

The Wifredo Lam Center in Havana is named after the renowned Cuban artist, Wilfredo Lam (1902-1982). Lam was a pivotal figure in 20th-century art, known for his unique fusion of European modernism with Afro-Cuban spiritual traditions. His work often explored themes of identity, colonialism, and the supernatural, influencing generations of artists.

While the center itself focuses on contemporary art, understanding Lam's impact is key to appreciating its namesake. Visitors interested in seeing Lam's most significant works are often directed to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) in Havana, which houses a substantial collection of his paintings and drawings. The Wifredo Lam Center, therefore, serves as a modern extension, showcasing how his legacy continues to inspire current artistic expression in Cuba. Reddit

Navigating Old Havana and the Center's Location

The Wifredo Lam Center is strategically located in the heart of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with colonial charm and vibrant street life. Its proximity to iconic landmarks like the Plaza Mayor and the Havana Cathedral makes it an easily accessible stop for tourists exploring the historic district. The area is best navigated on foot, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere, admire the architecture, and discover hidden gems.

Be aware that Old Havana can be bustling, especially during peak tourist times. The sounds of music from nearby establishments, like the famous 'La Bodeguita del Medio,' often spill into the streets. Reddit The center itself is housed within a beautiful colonial building, offering a tranquil escape from the lively streets outside. Its location makes it a perfect addition to a walking tour of the city's most historic and culturally rich neighborhoods.

Exhibitions and Artistic Focus

The Wifredo Lam Center is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art, acting as a vital platform for both emerging and established Cuban and international artists. Unlike the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which holds a retrospective of Lam's own oeuvre, this center focuses on the current artistic landscape, reflecting contemporary dialogues and trends. It has hosted notable exhibitions, such as the comprehensive 'The Whole World a Bauhaus/El mundo entero es una Bauhaus,' demonstrating its capacity for large-scale, thematic shows. Reddit

This focus on contemporary works means that visitors can expect a dynamic and often thought-provoking experience. The exhibitions are designed to engage with modern issues and artistic innovations, providing a glimpse into the evolving creative spirit of Cuba and beyond. The center's role is to foster dialogue and appreciation for the art being produced today, building upon the rich artistic heritage that figures like Wilfredo Lam represent.

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