National Museum of Fine Arts, Havana (must see)

The National Museum of Fine Arts of Havana (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de La Habana) is a premier Cuban institution dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of art. Since its establishment on February 23, 1913, under the guidance of its inaugural director, architect Emilio Heredia, the museum has been pivotal in showcasing Cuban art spanning from colonial times to the present.

The museum's journey to its current status involved several relocations until it found a permanent home in what used to be the old Colon Market. The construction of a new Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) in 1954, designed by architect Rodriguez Pichardo, marked a significant milestone in its history, offering a modern space for Cuban art collections.

Today, the museum comprises two distinct buildings: the Palace of Fine Arts, focusing on Cuban art, and the Palace of the Asturian Center
(Palacio del Centro Asturiano), which features universal art. The Palace of Fine Arts exclusively showcases Cuban artworks from the 17th to the 19th centuries, including landscape and religious paintings, as well as Costumbrismo scenes depicting Cuban life. The gallery dedicated to the 1970s highlights Hyperrealism and contemporary Cuban art, featuring prominent artists like René Portocarrero and Wifredo Lam. Renowned for its significant artworks, the museum also displays creations by Cuban artists such as Leopoldo Romañach, Víctor Manuel, and many others, alongside a modernist sculpture by Rita Lonja at the entrance.

On the other hand, the Palace of the Asturian Center, designed by Manuel Bustos in 1927, presents an array of European art and sculptures, as well as ancient art collections. This building, originally a social club for individuals from Asturias, Spain, transitioned to a cultural space after the 1959 Revolution and even served as the Supreme Court of Justice.

Why You Should Visit:
To explore a modern well-designed art exhibition with lots of pieces by Cuban artists that really capture the culture and spirit of the country.
It is also exciting to try and understand how art functions under a communist regime and how the art world and politics intersect.

Tip:
You cannot take in any backpacks – these must be checked for free before you enter.
Once inside, be sure to get a docent to give you a Spanish/English tour. They are excellent.
Be advised, that all the art belongs to the state, and if you even attempt to take a photo you will be stopped.
On a side note, the prettiest buildings that everyone wants to take pictures of are on the Paseo de Marti adjacent, as you walk down toward the ocean.