Revolution Square - A helicopter filming a mourning ceremony in Zanjan Revolution Square .
The interesting thing about this photo is not photomontage!
1 / 10

Revolution Square

4.6
·491k reviews·București, Romania

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat & crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Revolution Square - A helicopter filming a mourning ceremony in Zanjan Revolution Square .
The interesting thing about this photo is not photomontage!

Revolution Square

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat & crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The views from the top of the Martí Memorial are breathtaking, offering a true sense of Havana's scale."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

José Martí Memorial

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

Che Guevara & Camilo Cienfuegos Facades

Ministry of Interior buildings

Iconic metallic portraits of revolutionary leaders adorning the facades of prominent buildings.

National Library

National Library

North side of the square

Impressive architecture housing vast collections, a testament to Cuba's commitment to education.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Havana's Revolution Square

Visit Revolution Square early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense Cuban sun and the largest crowds. Many tours converge mid-day, so strategic timing can offer a more peaceful experience of this historic Havana landmark.

Understand the Square's History

Revolution Square, originally Civic Square, predates the Cuban Revolution. Knowing its evolution adds depth to your visit, understanding its significance beyond just the iconic monuments and political rallies it has hosted.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat & crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

"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

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Iconic revolutionary symbols
Panoramic city views
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Can be very hot
Vast and somewhat stark

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Revolution Square can be an interesting stop for families, especially if children are learning about Cuban history. The sheer scale of the monuments and the iconic portraits of Che and Camilo can capture their imagination. Encourage them to spot landmarks from the top of the José Martí Memorial – it's like a giant map! Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the square are limited. The open space is good for kids to move around, but always keep a close eye on them due to its size and potential for large crowds during events. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Revolution Square offers a unique blend of monumental architecture, political iconography, and urban vistas. Aim for early morning or late afternoon to capture the best light and avoid harsh midday shadows. The José Martí Memorial provides dramatic upward shots and sweeping panoramic views from its summit. Don't miss the iconic portraits of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos; experiment with different angles to convey their imposing presence. Be prepared for the vastness of the space and consider wide-angle lenses to capture the scale. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

Revolution Square is a must-visit for anyone interested in Cuban history and politics. Its transformation from Civic Square to the heart of revolutionary discourse is a compelling narrative. Explore the José Martí Memorial for insights into Cuba's struggle for independence and its national heroes. Reflect on the significance of the portraits of Che and Camilo, symbols of the enduring revolutionary spirit. Understanding the square's role as a site for major political rallies and speeches will provide a profound context for Cuba's modern history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Portraits of Che and Camilo

The striking metallic portraits of Ernesto 'Che' Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos adorning the facades of the Ministry of Interior buildings are perhaps the most globally recognized symbols of Revolution Square. These immense artworks, installed in the early 2000s, are not just decorative; they represent the enduring spirit of the Cuban Revolution and its key figures. Visitors often spend time marveling at their scale and the intricate detail of their design, finding them to be powerful photographic subjects. TikTokInstagram

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 José Martí Memorial is the dominant structure in Revolution Square, a colossal monument dedicated to Cuba's national hero. At its base, a statue of Martí gazes outwards, and the monument itself is shaped like a five-pointed star. For an unparalleled perspective of Havana, visitors can ascend to the observation deck located at the top of the memorial's tower. This offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the sprawling city, stretching from the historic Old Havana to the modern districts. TikTok

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

Contrary to its name, Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolución) was not built during the revolutionary period but was inaugurated as Civic Square (Plaza Cívica) in 1959, just as the revolution was taking hold. Its vast expanse was designed to accommodate large public gatherings, a function it has served extensively since. It quickly became the primary stage for Fidel Castro's lengthy speeches and massive political rallies, cementing its status as the epicenter of revolutionary fervor in Cuba. Reddit

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.

You may also like