Paseo del Prado, Colonial promenade in Centro Habana and Old Havana, Cuba
Paseo del Prado is a tree-lined promenade that runs from Malecon to the Fuente de la India fountain, lined with marble benches and bronze lion sculptures. The broad walkway features coral stone walls and plenty of space for strolling and sitting.
French landscape architect Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier redesigned the street in 1925 as part of a major transformation. The bronze lions were cast from decommissioned cannons, becoming symbols of this early modernization effort.
The walkway connects multiple architectural landmarks and shows influences from Madrid, Paris, and Vienna reflected in the surrounding buildings. You can observe how this European elegance blends with local character as you stroll along.
The central location offers easy access to restaurants, cafes, and shops with good transport connections to other parts of the city. It is a pleasant place to walk, particularly if you want to explore different areas of Havana.
The eight bronze lions were designed by French sculptor Jean Puiforcat and cast by Cuban master founder Juan Comas Masique. These figures represent a rare collaboration between French artistry and local craftsmanship that shaped the street.
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