
Church of San Francisco de Paula
A resilient historic chapel in Old Havana, known for its beauty, free entry, and occasional concerts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free entry, quick visit

Church of San Francisco de Paula
Best Time
Free entry, quick visit

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A resilient historic chapel in Old Havana, known for its beauty, free entry, and occasional concerts.
"A must stop for 5-10 mins before Plaza de Vieja. Quaint and beautiful old cathedral that is now a concert hall."

📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Located on a roundabout, it's ideal for capturing great photos of its facade. :camerawithflash:
📍 Near Plaza Vieja
A quick 5-10 minute stop before or after exploring Plaza Vieja. :world_map:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Resilient Architecture
Main facade
Admire the enduring beauty of this historic chapel, a miracle of survival against demolition attempts.

Concert Hall Ambiance
Interior (when accessible)
Experience the acoustics of this beautiful old cathedral, often hosting Italian religious music concerts.

Marina Views
Exterior, facing the harbor
Enjoy a picturesque view of the Havana Marina from the church's vicinity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quick Visit, Big Impact
A Survivor's Story
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Located on a roundabout, it's ideal for capturing great photos of its facade. :camerawithflash:
📍 Near Plaza Vieja
A quick 5-10 minute stop before or after exploring Plaza Vieja. :world_map:
🆓 Free Admission
Open to the public and free of charge, making it an accessible historical site. :moneywithwings:
🎶 Concert Venue
Check for schedules if you're interested in hearing Italian religious music concerts. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Located on a roundabout, it's ideal for capturing great photos of its facade. :camerawithflash:
📍 Near Plaza Vieja
A quick 5-10 minute stop before or after exploring Plaza Vieja. :world_map:
🆓 Free Admission
Open to the public and free of charge, making it an accessible historical site. :moneywithwings:
🎶 Concert Venue
Check for schedules if you're interested in hearing Italian religious music concerts. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Church of San Francisco de Paula to be a beautiful and historically significant small chapel. Its free admission and quick visit time make it a convenient stop, especially for its picturesque views and potential for concerts. Some note that interior access can be limited.
"A must stop for 5-10 mins before Plaza de Vieja. Quaint and beautiful old cathedral that is now a concert hall for Italian religious music. Amazing structure and view of Havana Marina."
Dave Magee
"My favorite church in Havana so far. This tiny chapel has survived so many attempts of demolition that is almost a miracle being able to see it nowadays. Read a bit about its story if you get a chance."
Yolanda Santa Cruz
"Beautiful small church. Not allowed inside though."
Andy Martinez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is centrally located in Old Havana, making it easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the historic district. It's situated on a roundabout, a short walk from Plaza Vieja. Taxis are also readily available to drop you off nearby.
Yes, it's very close to Plaza Vieja, a vibrant square with many restaurants and shops. It's also a short walk from other key sites in Old Havana, making it a convenient stop during your sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Church of San Francisco de Paula is free of charge and open to the public. You can admire its exterior and, when accessible, its interior without any admission fee.
While the church is generally open to the public, specific hours can vary. It's best to check locally or visit during daylight hours when exploring Old Havana, as it's often accessible for a brief visit.
Visitors are sometimes allowed inside, but access can be restricted. Reviews suggest it's not always possible to enter, so while you can always admire its exterior, interior access might be limited.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The church is situated on a roundabout, offering great vantage points for photography. Its unique location and historic architecture make it a picturesque subject.
Morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the church's facade. The surrounding area is also less crowded during these times, allowing for clearer shots.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
This small chapel is remarkable for its survival, having faced numerous demolition attempts throughout its history. Its continued existence is considered a minor miracle, making it a symbol of resilience in Havana.
While it remains a historic church, it also functions as a concert hall, often hosting performances of Italian religious music. This dual purpose adds a unique cultural dimension to the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Testament to Resilience
Visitors are often struck by the fact that such a small chapel has managed to withstand the test of time and various challenges. Reading up on its past before your visit can greatly enhance your appreciation for its presence in the bustling city. It's a reminder of the layers of history embedded within Havana's streets.
Its location on a roundabout also makes it a unique landmark, easily visible and a point of reference for those navigating Old Havana. The church's survival is a story of perseverance, mirroring the spirit of the city itself.
More Than Just a Church: A Concert Venue
This dual function means that while you might visit for its visual beauty, you could also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in its acoustics. The intimate setting of the church is ideal for such performances, creating a special atmosphere that combines history with the arts. It's worth checking local listings for any scheduled concerts during your visit.
Experiencing a concert here provides a different perspective on the church, showcasing its continued relevance and adaptability as a community space. It transforms a static historical site into a dynamic venue for cultural expression.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit