The Most Amazing Churches in Cuba

Religion in Cuba: A Brief Overview

1. Havana Cathedral: A Landmark

The Cathedral of The Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception, most people just refer to it as the Havana Cathedral. It’s the main Catholic Cathedral on the island, and is one of the most significant churches in Cuba. Construction took place between 1748 and 1777. It’s built from stone that contains significant amounts of coral, taken from the ocean. 

There are apparently tiny marine fossils that can be seen in the rock. A gigantic sprawling Baroque building, the cathedral overlooks the equally beautiful Plaza de la Catedral (Cathedral Square). 

It’s a key cultural hub of Old Havana. The remains of Christopher Columbus were reportedly once housed in the cathedral and returned to Spain in 1796. While it’s a functioning cathedral it’s also a beautiful place to enjoy some quiet contemplation. You can attend Sunday mass here too.

2. The Basilica Menor De San Francisco De Asisi – Art and Music

Havana’s turbulent history is evident in the Basilica Menor De San Francisco De Asisi. Built between 1580 and 1581, the church was used by the British as their place of worship when they briefly ruled Havana in 1762. After Havana was handed back to the Spanish, the church was no longer used for regular services.

Today, the austere and yet beautiful building is used for art exhibitions and concerts. It’s a unique place to enjoy live music, with regular events held in the ancient building. Be sure to check the program when you’re in town.

You should also try to see the bell tower, which is located in Habana Vieja, Havana’s Old Town.

3. A Church in the Hills: The Basilica Del Cobre

Another beautiful church is El Sanctuario de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre. Or simply the Basilica del Cobre. Located on Maboa Hill, just outside of Santiago de Cuba. It was built in 1927, which makes it relatively new compared to other churches in Cuba. However, its beauty is unmatched. The compact building is framed by the lush green hills that surround it.

4. See the Cross of Columbus in Cuba’s Original Capital

Baracoa, once Cuba’s capital, is home to the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, the island’s oldest church.

Housed in a fortress-like structure of severe grey rock, the cathedral’s main draw is an ancient wooden cross reportedly brought to Cuba by Christopher Columbus.

Whether it was brought from Spain or built after Columbus arrived, the cross is a remarkable symbol of faith and history.

Highlights:

• Cuba’s oldest church
• Fortress-like appearance
• Ancient wooden cross reportedly brought to Cuba by Christopher Columbus

Don’t miss:

• The intricate details of the cathedral’s exterior and interior
• The ancient wooden cross
• The breathtaking views of Baracoa from the cathedral’s hilltop perch

Tips:

• The Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
• Dress respectfully when visiting the cathedral

5. Empty for Decades: Iglesia de San Francisco de Paula

The Iglesia de San Francisco de Paula stands on the grounds of a demolished women’s hospital. These days it’s a stunning concert hall and exhibition centre in Havana.

Partially destroyed by a hurricane in 1730 and extensively restored in 1947 and 2000, the church stood empty for decades before being transformed into its current role.

Like the Basilica Menor De San Francisco De Asis, the Iglesia de San Francisco de Paula is a must-see, even if you’re not religious. Its dome, filled with light after dark, is a truly breathtaking sight.

Highlights:

• Stunning concert hall and exhibition centre
• Beautiful dome lit up at night
• One of the smaller but most beautiful churches in Cuba

Tips:

• The Iglesia de San Francisco de Paula is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Admission is free.
• Dress respectfully when visiting the church.