The once-thriving Wedding Palace in Sancti Spíritus, which had been closed for nearly two years due to severe structural decay, has been handed over to the small private enterprise Armonía. This private entity will undertake a comprehensive renovation of the property and manage its future services, as reported by the provincial radio station on Sunday.
Carlos Enrique León Reyes, director of the Provincial Real Estate Management Company, confirmed that the bidding process was finalized about a month ago, and the establishment was formally transferred to this new non-state actor, as detailed by Radio Sancti Spíritus.
"The facility had been closed for roughly two years because of its deteriorating condition, including the roof and overall infrastructure. It had been managed non-state actors for years, meaning it was leased to private economic entities," León explained.
The renovation efforts are already underway and encompass the roof, landscaping, walls, plumbing and sanitary networks, coverings, eaves, and flooring, all while respecting the building's original colonial architecture.
"They're repairing the roof, redoing all the landscaping, and patching up walls. It's a substantial project, significant in both size and structure," the official elaborated.
Revitalizing a Historical Venue
The business plan aims to restore the services that historically made the Wedding Palace a local landmark: a restaurant, a second-floor recreation area with a bar, and a café.
Additionally, Armonía plans to produce bread and food onsite without altering the building's structure. "Local services will be set up within the existing framework, ensuring these services without changing the building's structure," León specified.
The reopening is anticipated in the coming months, intending to host family celebrations such as weddings, quinceañeras, and birthdays.
Trend of Privatization in Cuba
The situation in Sancti Spíritus is part of a broader trend that has accelerated this year: the Cuban government is transferring management of iconic yet dilapidated properties to private entrepreneurs through public tenders while retaining ownership of the buildings.
In July, the state-run company Cimex announced the tendering of 12 commercial establishments in various municipalities of Sancti Spíritus province.
In August, the government of Holguín initiated a bidding process for its Wedding Palace, while Ciego de Ávila launched a similar effort for the management of six warehouses under the "Mercado del Barrio" project.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Domestic Trade has begun outlining procedures to tender the management of culinary establishments in the Family Service System (SAF) to other economic actors, including the non-state sector.
FAQs about the Privatization of Cuban Facilities
Why was the Wedding Palace in Sancti Spíritus closed?
The Wedding Palace was closed due to severe structural decay, including issues with the roof and overall infrastructure.
Who is responsible for the renovation and future management of the Wedding Palace?
The private enterprise Armonía is responsible for the renovation and will manage the future services of the Wedding Palace.
What services will be offered at the renovated Wedding Palace?
The renovated Wedding Palace will offer a restaurant, a second-floor recreation area with a bar, and a café. Bread and food will be produced onsite.