A young Cuban has sparked a stir on social media after sharing a video that reveals the deserted state of 23rd Avenue in Vedado, right in the heart of Havana, on a Saturday afternoon. Once one of the most bustling thoroughfares in Cuba's capital, the avenue now appears almost entirely empty. "This is 23rd Street and it's Saturday, 6 PM... empty. There's nothing here," the young man says as he walks down the well-known avenue, which used to be alive with people, cars, and cultural vibrancy.
In the video, shared on the TikTok account @losfueradrosca, viewers can witness not only the near-total absence of pedestrians but also the neglected state of the street, with scattered plant debris and branches littering the sidewalks. "Back in my day, this place was packed with people, especially on weekends. It was madness, people everywhere, groups of youngsters. Cuba is becoming empty, there's nothing here. It's insane, unbelievable," he continues.
The post has ignited extensive discussion among users who are commenting on Havana's current situation, characterized by massive migration, economic crisis, and urban decay, all of which have diminished the vibrancy of traditionally active areas like Vedado. Such scenes are increasingly common, highlighting the gradual decline of the social fabric in the Cuban capital, where once lively streets now seem frozen in time.
Understanding the Decline of 23rd Avenue in Vedado
What has caused 23rd Avenue in Vedado to become so deserted?
The emptiness of 23rd Avenue is a result of mass migration, economic hardships, and urban decay that have reduced the area's once-thriving activity.
How does the current state of 23rd Avenue reflect broader trends in Havana?
The current state of 23rd Avenue mirrors a broader trend of deteriorating social structures in Havana, where vibrant streets now appear stagnant and neglected.