Artifact 1: Architecture

 Andre Harris II 

Architecture 

    The capital of Cuba, Havana, is rich in culture. Many people feel that they’ve gone on a trip in a time machine when they visit Havana due to the old classic style cars, stunning architecture and the history that is still visibly present. My first artifact will be about the alluring architecture of Havana, Cuba. 

I am choosing architecture as my artifact because it has been a keen interest of mine since I was a child. I specifically like architecture that is grand, designed with detail and ultimately is intriguing to look at. There is something special about walking past a building, and having to double take because the detailed work is so astonishing. One thing about architecture which people overlook is the effect on the environment it has. It has an influence on the culture and people around it. In Cuba, the architecture alone would draw me there to visit, below I will go into detail about Cuba’s rich architectural history and more.

Cuban architecture holds a lot of historical significance. Going back in time, Havana was a city of wealth and extravagance permitting the city to build eye-catching buildings of multiple styles and influenced by different cultures. In 1511 Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar, a conquistador who founded seven towns in Cuba, would begin the development of fortresses, homes and buildings. These developments  were designed in Mudéjar style. Along with Mudéjar style the architecture would have details and finishes of Spanish and Moorish colonial styles.  

 In later years, during Neoclassical times, the architecture would integrate the style Baroque. This dynamic style, which included Spanish and Moorish characteristics such as, fountains, artistic tiles and patios. These buildings and homes were built not only for its dashing looks but also for function. Above doorways multi colored glass panes would be installed to deter sunrays, while townhouses had grand porches giving shade, and shelter from tropical weather. Plenty of homes had mezzanine floors to accommodate live in slave families. Although Baroque is an architectural style from Italy, Cuba would go on to add its own twist to the style, simplifying it from its European counterpart. 

Spanish culture is full of passion and vibrant expression. Cuba’s architecture directly reflects this in its designs. The architectural buildings' detailed finishes, extensive additions and its colors thoroughly shows the passion and expression people of Spanish speaking countries embody in their daily lives. As I wrote earlier, architecture influences moods and the vibe of the area. Cuba’s architecture is perfect for the rich spanish culture, enhancing the culture, and fruitful vibes that are already present. With the historic significance stored in Havana’s architecture, this is important to Spanish culture for the simple fact that it is history which fortunately has been preserved to the present day. If someone wanted a direct link back to 1511 to get a glimpse of what times were like then, they could simply walk outside and look around at the scenery around them. The preservation of heritage and culture through architecture is outstanding. 

Below are examples of Havana’s exemplary architecture: 

Citations 

“Art & Architecture in Cuba: Frommer’s.” Art & Architecture in Cuba | Frommer’s, www.frommers.com/destinations/cuba/in-depth/art--architecture#:~:text=Fortresses%2C%20homes%2C%20and%20buildings%20centered,a%20UNESCO%20World%20Heritage%20Site. Accessed 12 Oct. 2023.

Han, Mila. “Cuban Architecture.” Prezi.Com, prezi.com/_rijxvwhx_cx/cuban-architecture/. Accessed 12 Oct. 2023.