Barrio Cayo Hueso

Immediately west of the Plaza Antonio Maceo [1], a triangular area bordered by the Malecón [2], San Lázaro, and Calzada de Infanta forms the northwest corner of Centro Habana [3].

Known as Barrio Cayo Hueso, the region dates from the early 20th century when tenement homes were erected atop what had been the Espada cemetery (hence the name, Cay of Bones). Its several art deco inspirations include the Edificio Solimar (Soledad #205, e/ San Lázaro y Ánimas) apartment complex, built in 1944.

The pseudo-castle at the corner of Calle 25 and the Malecón was—before the Revolution—the Casa Marina, Havana’s most palatial brothel. Carousing English travel writer Graham Greene was among its celebrity habitués.