Spaniards began colonizing in Cuba after Christopher Columbus discovered the island in 1492. As Spanish and African immigrants settled into the new land, they brought with them their distinct cultures, traditions, and history. After gaining formal independence from the United States in 1902, Cuba became a fusion of diverse cultures. The country today is the second most populated in the Caribbean, with over 11 million inhabitants, and is ranked high by the United Nations for human development, health, and education. …show more content…
Habana Vieja is one of 15 municipalities forming the capital of Havana and exposes travelers to the extraordinary culture and history of Cuba. Established in 1859, downtown Havana was initially a stopping point for galleons coming to the New World. By the 17th century, it had become the primary shipbuilding center with baroque and neoclassical styled buildings. The influence of Spaniards can be seen in the squares, where tourists strolling along the cobblestoned streets might recognize that the architectural design resembles that seen in plazas throughout