Havana Cathedral unveils new artwork

Havana Cathedral presents a fresh look with the temporary installation of La Madonna Luminosa—a piece by Cuban artist Aluan Argüelles—which now occupies the central oculus of the iconic church while its original stained-glass window undergoes restoration.

This artistic intervention offers both residents and visitors a new perspective on one of the most representative buildings in Havana’s Historic Center, a space where architectural heritage and contemporary expression engage in dialogue.

The installation also provides an opportunity to rediscover the cathedral and explore its surroundings, as the church approaches a significant milestone: the 250th anniversary of its inauguration, which will be marked in April 2027.

This experience can be part of the “Colonial Havana” tour, organized by the San Cristóbal travel agency, which invites visitors to discover the four foundational squares of the old city of San Cristóbal de La Habana: Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, Plaza de San Francisco, and Plaza de la Catedral.

Accompanied by specialized guides, participants can engage with this new artistic installation while learning about the history, architecture, and conservation efforts that keep the city’s legacy alive.

Beyond the cultural experience, this initiative promotes a form of tourism centered on heritage preservation. According to the San Cristóbal agency, a portion of the proceeds from these tours supports the restoration of the Historic Center, as well as vocational workshops and community projects backed by the Office of the City Historian.

In this way, a visit to the cathedral and the historic squares goes beyond a typical tourist excursion; it becomes a meaningful contribution to the preservation of old Havana, its traditions, and the spaces that define the identity of its inhabitants. With La Madonna Luminosa as its temporary centerpiece, the cathedral adds a new attraction to its history and reaffirms the value of heritage that continues to evolve for the benefit of future generations.