Segundo Cabo Palace
|
In
1772 the army engineer and native of Havana Antonio Fernández de Trebejos
began its construction. The building was meant to be used as Quartermaster Corps
and Post Office.
Architecturally, it is an example of the baroque details in Cuban architecture. When the style of construction of façades in Havana changed completely, it became the future pattern of countless buildings.
Fronts as can be seen in this building were often used in other constructions in the city, as well as its arches, cornices, etc. This was one of the first buildings where iron grilles were used instead of wooden ones.
The Palacio de los Capitanes Generales took after this pattern and both make a charming corner at the Plaza de Armas.
Halfway through the 19th century it was the seat of the General Segundo Cabo, vice governor of Cuba, to whom it owes its name. After the independence, it housed the Senate, the High Court and different academies. Today is home to the Cuban Institute of Books.
