Callejón de Hámel

The Callejón de Hámel

The Havana audio-guided tour has you discover the Callejón de Hámel, a unique alley that, over two hundred metres, transforms into a veritable open-air exhibition of Cuban popular art.

The work of Salvador González Escalona

Most of the works of the alley have been made since the 1990s by the self-taught artist Salvador González Escalona. Mingling frescoes, evocative texts and recycled objects, his style draws its inspiration from Africa and Afro-Cuban culture. Many creations refer to santería, a popular religion born of the mixture between the Yoruba traditions and Catholicism. The alley is not limited to visual art: it also comes alive with concerts and improvised dance shows, especially on Sundays.

What there is to see

Over two hundred metres, the gaze sweeps over a profusion of colourful frescoes, sculptures and eclectic objects, in a colourful abundance. It is a lively and off-the-beaten-track place, which gathers inhabitants and travellers around popular art and Afro-Cuban culture. On Sundays, music and dance add a festive atmosphere there.

Practical information

The Callejón de Hámel is in the Cayo Hueso district, in Havana. The alley can be walked freely on foot at all hours and on the level; the works can be contemplated freely. The atmosphere is particularly lively on Sundays, the day of concerts and dance shows.

Who created the works of the Callejón de Hámel?

The self-taught artist Salvador González Escalona, since the 1990s, drawing inspiration from Africa and Afro-Cuban culture.

What is santería?

A popular religion born of the mixture between the Yoruba traditions and Catholicism, to which many works of the alley refer.