The massive Fortaleza of San Carlos de la Cabana, commonly known as the Castillo de San Carlos de la Cabana, rises atop La Cabana hill, about a 15-minute walk from El Morro in the Parque Historico Militar.
It was the largest and most expensive fort the Spanish had ever erected at the time of its construction in the 1770s. Following the British takeover, the Spanish began construction of this massive fort, which now stands guard over the entrance to Havana Bay.
The Cabana, or La Cabana, was utilised as a military jail under the Batista administration and eventually became Che Guevara’s headquarters after the Revolution.
The fort is now home to a few museums. The Museo de Comandancia del Che, with Che Guevara’s office kept as it was during his tenure here, is the most spectacular. Some of his personal belongings are on exhibit as well.
The fort provides spectacular views of the city and the sea during the day. Come here for the Ceremonia del Caonazo, a cannon-firing ritual performed by actors dressed in 19th-century costumes every evening at 9 p.m. if you’re seeking for things to do in Havana at night.
