El Templete, Neoclassical temple in Old Havana, Cuba
El Templete is a neoclassical building on Plaza de Armas in Old Havana, standing directly in front of the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales. Inside are three large paintings created by French artist Jean Baptiste Vermay depicting the founding moments of the city.
The temple was inaugurated in 1828 and marks the site where Spanish conquistadors held the first mass and established Havana in 1519. The three paintings document these early events including the first mass, the first town council meeting, and the church blessing by Bishop Espada.
The building stands next to a large ceiba tree that many locals consider sacred. You will see people stopping to walk around it and spend quiet moments there.
The location sits at the edge of Plaza de Armas square, easily reached on foot and visible from anywhere in Old Havana. The entrance is level and open, making a visit straightforward for most people.
Next to the building grows an old ceiba tree where thousands of people gather each year to circle it three times and toss coins. For many visitors, this ritual represents a personal wish and blends spiritual practice with local custom.
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