The Castillo de la Real Fuerza

The Castillo de la Real Fuerza, in Havana

The Castillo de la Real Fuerza is one of the oldest fortresses of Havana, by the bay. The Havana audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this castle, a witness of the defence of the colonial city and topped with the famous Giraldilla.

The fortress of the royal force

The Castillo de la Real Fuerza, the castle of the royal force, is among the oldest fortifications of Havana and the Americas. Built in the colonial era to defend the city and its port, it is surrounded by moats and topped with a tower bearing the Giraldilla, a weathervane that became the symbol of the city. It today houses a museum devoted to the maritime history of Cuba.

What to see

You admire the ramparts, the moats and the tower topped with the Giraldilla, a symbol of Havana, as well as the maritime museum housed in the fortress. The Castillo de la Real Fuerza illustrates the defence of the colonial city. It is a stop for lovers of history and fortifications, by the bay.

Practical information

The Castillo de la Real Fuerza lies by the bay, near Plaza de Armas, in Old Havana, reachable on foot. The visit of the fortress and the museum has a fee and follows its own hours, which vary. It is best to check the arrangements before coming.

What is the Giraldilla of the Castillo de la Real Fuerza?

It is a weathervane that tops the tower of the fortress, become one of the symbols of Havana.

Where is the Castillo de la Real Fuerza?

By the bay, near Plaza de Armas, in Old Havana.