🏛️✨ The Cuban Capitol Building (El Capitolio) 🇨🇺💫

Built between 1926 and 1929 during Gerardo Machado’s presidency, the Cuban Capitol Building draws inspiration from Neoclassical architecture, directly mirroring Rome’s Pantheon and the U.S. Capitol. 🏛️🌍 Its striking dome and columned façade symbolize national power and governmental authority, much like its Washington counterpart. A grand staircase leads to its monumental entrance, designed to evoke awe and solemnity. 🚶‍♂️💎 Both capitals feature statues atop their domes representing national values: the Statue of Freedom in D.C., and the Statue of the Republic in Havana—a 6-ton bronze goddess holding a star aloft! 🌟🗽 Originally housing Cuba’s bicameral Congress, the building lost its legislative role after the 1959 Revolution. 💥📜 It later became home to the Cuban Academy of Sciences and, eventually, the National Assembly of People’s Power. Fun fact: Its dome soars 91.73 meters tall—surpassing the U.S. Capitol’s 88 meters! 📏😲 Inside, the Republic Statue reigns as one of the world’s largest indoor sculptures at 17 meters high, crafted from 62 tons of Italian marble. 🗿💎 Luxurious details like marble floors and bronze accents reflect the opulence of pre-revolutionary Cuba, showcasing U.S. influence during the early 20th century. 💸🇺🇸 This landmark embodies Cuba’s history as a former Spanish colony and its complex ties with the U.S. 🌍⚖️ After the Revolution, it gained new meaning as a symbol of political transformation. 🔄🏛️ After decades of decay, the building was restored in 2018 and reopened as a major tourist attraction and a proud emblem of Cuban identity. 🎉 📸 Don’t miss it on your Havana itinerary! #CubaTravel 🇨🇺 #ExploreTheWorld 🌏 #ClassicalMeetsModern 🏛️🚀