The Capitolio Nacional looks remarkably like Washington’s Capitol Building, which isn’t that surprising as it was commissioned by America back in the mid-1920s taking only three years to build and employing several thousand Cuban workers to complete the job. Not surprisingly, no one in Cuba makes a big play on the American connection and today it’s used as a government office with a strong bias towards attracting tourists. It is certainly one of Havana’s most impressive buildings, making a real statement as it dominates the area and the surrounding buildings. Outside, guarding the main entrance, is a gigantic statue of a man (symbolic of war) and a woman (peace) in, of course, classical poses. You’ll need to be fairly sprightly to make it to the main entrance without a rest, but from the top of the stairs there’s a fine view across Havana’s main street, with impressive glimpses of some of its amazing structures. We made the mistake of sitting on the top step to rest our weary limbs, but we're quickly advised that this was not acceptable; not sure why, but we moved on anyway.
Inside the main hall (admission to this part is 2 peso a further 2 peso to take photographs) and we are immediately over shadowed by the dominant gold figure who successfully dwarfs all tourists who enter through the massive wooden doors.
Doors, which on the inside tell a story of Cuba’s history through intricately carved panels. Unfortunately, my ignorance of Cuban history meant that I was only able to appreciate the panels for their artwork rather than the story line.
In the center of the huge domed hallway, a small glass dome, inset into the floor, shows off one of ‘a girl’s best friends’, a diamond; sparkling beneath our feet. A superb center spot underneath the Nacional’s Cuprinol, which is a masterpiece of design and well worth cricking one's neck to appreciate its design features. The elaborate plaster carvings, the extensive use of gold leaf and its bright dominant colors directing the eye to the center spot: the eye on the outside world. Amazing.
Either side of the palatial entrance hall are two long wide corridors stretching into the distance with their highly polished marble floors reflecting every ray of light that finds its way into the building.
You can only visit the ground floor of this building and even then much of it is not accessible to the tourist, but the Salon de los Pasos Peridos (the entrance hall) will surely leave you with lasting memories. It truly is a lavish extravaganza demonstrating authority, power, and influence.