Cuban content creator Diana Aguiar (@diaguiar.02) recently captivated her Instagram followers by sharing an unexpected adventure at the renowned Palace of the Captains General, located in the heart of Old Havana. During her visit, Aguiar, accompanied by a group of friends, explored ancient underground tunnels concealed beneath this historic landmark. These passageways were constructed in the latter half of the 18th century.
Aguiar highlighted historian Eusebio Leal's theory, suggesting these tunnels linked various colonial homes in Havana. "It was a burial crypt, but many Cuban historians believe they are actually passageways connecting with other parts of the city," Aguiar shared on her social media, sparking significant interest among history buffs and urban mystery enthusiasts.
Baroque Masterpiece with Underground Secrets
The Palace of the Captains General, now home to the Museum of the City, is deemed the pinnacle of Baroque architecture in Cuba. Construction began in 1776, close to the Cathedral of Havana, and it served as the residence for the 65 captains general dispatched by the Spanish Crown to govern the island. It also hosted the U.S. Administrator during the intervention from 1898 to 1902 and functioned as the Presidential Palace until 1920.
Besides its impressive architecture, the building has served various roles over the years. It has been a city council, a prison, the headquarters for government offices, and currently, a museum boasting over 40 rooms dedicated to national history. Among its most visited areas is the inner courtyard, where a statue of Christopher Columbus has stood since 1862.
Thanks to Aguiar's revelations, there is renewed intrigue surrounding the hidden levels of this national monument, where official history intertwines with the mysteries of Havana's hidden passageways.
Exploring Havana's Hidden Passageways
What are the tunnels beneath the Palace of the Captains General?
The tunnels are ancient passageways constructed in the late 18th century, believed to connect various colonial homes in Havana.
Who was Eusebio Leal?
Eusebio Leal was a renowned Cuban historian who theorized that the tunnels linked different areas of Havana.
What significance does the Palace of the Captains General hold?
The palace is a Baroque masterpiece that served as the residence of Spanish captains general and has played various roles throughout history, including being a museum today.