Casa De La Obra Pía

Lonely Planet review

This typical Habana aristocratic residence was originally built in 1665, and was rebuilt in 1780, soon after the British occupation. Baroque decoration - including an intricate portico, which was made in Cádiz, Spain - covers the exterior facade, and at 1480 sq m this grandiose home was the largest in the neighborhood at the time it was erected.

It is named for the piety of its original owner, Martin Calvo de la Puerta, who was well known for lending economic support to orphans over a period of many years ( obra pía means 'charitable work').

As well as its historical connections, the house today also contains one of the city historian's most commendable social projects, a sewing-and-needlecraft cooperative that has a workshop inside and a small shop selling clothes and textiles on Calle Mercaderes.