El Templete

El Templete, a memorial of the foundation of Havana

El Templete is a small neoclassical building on Plaza de Armas, which commemorates the foundation of Havana. The Havana audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this symbolic monument, linked to the origins of the city.

The memory of the first mass

Built in 1827 on Plaza de Armas, El Templete, the little temple, is a neoclassical building that commemorates the foundation of Havana. It marks the spot where, according to tradition, the first mass and the first council of the city were held, in the shade of a tree, the ceiba. A symbol of the origins of the capital, it is surrounded by great fervour during the annual commemoration of the foundation.

What to see

You admire the small neoclassical building and its setting on Plaza de Armas, as well as the tree that recalls the foundation of the city. El Templete commemorates the origins of Havana and the first mass. It is a stop for lovers of history, in the heart of Old Havana.

Practical information

El Templete lies on Plaza de Armas, in the heart of Old Havana, reachable on foot. The building can be freely admired from the square; the visit of the interior follows its own hours and conditions, which vary. It is best to check the arrangements before coming.

What does El Templete commemorate in Havana?

The foundation of Havana: it marks the spot where, according to tradition, the first mass and the first council of the city were held, built in 1827.

Where is El Templete?

On Plaza de Armas, in the heart of Old Havana, in Cuba.