Things to do in Cuba, Cuba: The Best Sacred & Religious Sites

Havana's first baroque church (1712-18) was originally conceived as a convalescent hospital. The founding Belenistas (members of the Order of Bethlehem) were replaced in 1842 by the Jesuits, who established a school here in 1856. The niche over the main door contains a nativity scene under a fluted conch shell. The figures in the niche are illuminated from behind by an amber reflector that throws extra light on the heads of the saints. (The lighting here is the work of electrical engineer Félix de Noval, who has illuminated many of Havana's monuments.) The convent's Arco de Belén, at the corner of Acosta and Compostela, has long been identified with the neighborhood's Jewish community, which after their 1492 expulsion from Spain became an important presence in Cuba as the Sephardic diaspora spread throughout the Mediterranean and the New World. COST: $2. Mon.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-1.

Although it was begun in 1755, this church and convent complex wasn't completed until the 19th century. Hence you can clearly see a progression of architectural styles, particularly in the facade, with its six starchy-white pillars and its combination of late-baroque and early neoclassical elements. Inside are numerous works by 19th-century Cuban painters. COST: Free. Mon.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-1.

The Latin inscription over the main door of this church and convent dedicated to St. Francis reads: non est in toto sanctior orbe locus (there is no holier place on earth). As it's now a museum and concert hall, it may no longer be earth's holiest place, but it certainly is one of the loveliest. Built in the 16th century, in 1730 it was restored in a baroque style, resulting in a richly adorned facade with fluted conchlike tympanums over the doors and windows. Just inside the door you'll see tombs beneath a glass floor panel. (Churches were used as cemeteries until Bishop Espada founded what is now the Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón in 1868, a detail all Cubans seem to know and cherish). Note also the 19th-century grandfather clock made by Tiffany. The rooms to the right of the nave house archaeological finds and art exhibits.