Havana - Hotel Inglaterra

The Hotel Inglaterra in Havana has an interesting and important history that most Cubans are well aware of. The hotel and the sidewalk out front was a central gathering spot for liberal minded activists in the years prior to separation from Spain. General Antonio Maceo made the Hotel Ingleaterra his headquarters when he planned out the framework for the Cuban wars of independence.

The hotel is done up in neo-Classical style and was built in the late 19th century. Although it has the outwards appearance of neo-Classical, intrepid visitors will note the strong mudejar influence throughout the building. Be sure to check out the Andalusian mosaics and locate the column with the Arabic inscription: "Only Allah is the victor".

The Hotel Inglaterra has host many of Havana's famous guests, including Anna Pavlova and Sarah Bernhardt among others.