Gran Teatro de La Habana (Great Theatre of Havana), Havana (must see)

The Great Theatre of Havana (Gran Teatro de La Habana) is a significant symbol of Cuba's cultural heritage and its historical connection with Spain, through the support of Galician immigrants who funded its construction. The theater functions not only as a performance venue but also as a comprehensive cultural complex, housing the Cuban National Ballet and hosting various artistic events.

Its origins can be traced back to the Tacón Theatre, a cultural hub in Havana since 1838, where renowned international artists like Enrico Caruso and Sarah Bernhardt performed. In the early 20th century, the Centro Gallego was built around the original Tacón Theatre to cater to the social and cultural needs of the Galician immigrant community. This integration resulted in a sophisticated complex featuring theaters, a concert hall, conference rooms, an art gallery, and rehearsal spaces.

Built in 1914 by Belgian architect Paul Belau and engineered by the American firm Purdy and Henderson, the theater replaced the older Tacón Theatre. Architecturally, the Great Theatre of Havana boasts an elaborate Baroque Revival style, with the original Tacón Theatre's exterior receiving new stone facing to match the grandeur of the Centro Gallego. Sculptures by artists Giuseppe Moretti and Geneva Mercer adorn the building, representing themes of charity, education, music, and theater, adding cultural depth to its visual appeal.

A notable feature is the bronze sculpture of Alicia Alonso, the legendary Cuban ballerina, created by sculptor José Villa Soberón and named "Giselle" after one of Alonso's famous ballets. This sculpture, located in the theater's lobby, pays homage to Alonso's contributions to dance and the National Ballet of Cuba.

The theater's main venue, the García Lorca Auditorium, seats 1,500 and remains a focal point for cultural activities, including performances by the Cuban National Ballet and the International Ballet Festival of Havana, held biennially since 1960, attracting talents from around the world.