Spanish Embassy (former Velasco-Sarra Palace), Havana

The Spanish Embassy in Havana, situated near the Presidential Palace, is an architectural gem housed in what was once known as the Velasco-Sarra Palace. This remarkable building is a testament to the Art Nouveau movement of the early 20th century, designed by the architects Jose Mato Sequeiro and Francisco Ramirez Ovando in 1912. Initially, it was a grand gesture from Ernesto Sarra to his sister Maria Teresa on her marriage to Dionisio Velasco, symbolizing the prosperity and success of the Sarra family's pharmaceutical enterprise, which emerged as a leading business in Latin America and held significant global standing.

The Velasco-Sarra Palace, with its exquisite Art Nouveau design, is noted for its ornamental richness and architectural finesse. The structure showcases an array of decorative elements, including grand arches on the first floor and intricate bas relief statues adorning the building's corners. The presence of expansive balconies for each window on the second and third floors adds to its grandeur, enhancing its visibility and beauty, particularly when illuminated at night.

After remaining with the Velasco family until 1960, the palace transitioned to a new role, first serving as the Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy and later, in the 1980s, becoming the Spanish Embassy itself. Its transformation over the years has not detracted from its architectural splendor; rather, it has added layers to its historical and cultural significance.

The palace's strategic location facing Havana's bay entrance amplifies its allure, making it a prominent and distinguished landmark, especially when its unique contours are highlighted against the night sky. The Spanish Embassy, as it stands today, continues to be an integral piece of Havana's rich architectural tapestry, embodying a blend of historical legacy and aesthetic grandeur.