Cuba

Across the bustling Avenida Argentina stands the Cuba, a Palma landmark steeped in over a century of history. Originally a family home, the Cuba has witnessed Palma’s transformation. It has seen the city evolve from a bustling port frequented by sailors and fishermen to the cosmopolitan hub it is today. The building itself whispers tales of a bygone era. Constructed in 1904 by Rafael Juan Roc, a returning son who made his fortune in Cuba, the Cuba’s Art Nouveau facade echoes the artistic flourishes of Barcelona. Its designer, Gaspar Reynés i Coll, a contemporary of Gaudí, imbued the building with a unique elegance. The Roc family occupied the building until the Spanish Civil War. After their daughter’s death, the family sold the property, and it was transformed into the Hostal Cuba. This modest establishment offered rooms primarily to sailors and fishermen, often for extended stays. The Cuba’s bar became a vibrant social hub. It was a place where locals and tourists mingled, where fish bait, ship fuel, and even smuggled Caribbean tobacco could be procured. Closed in the 1990s, the Cuba reopened in the 21st century. In 2013, a significant renovation breathed new life into the building. The interior was modernized, while the exterior, a protected cultural asset, remained untouched, preserving its historic charm. Today, the Cuba, now the Hostal Cuba Hotel, offers a blend of modern amenities and historical significance. The Sky Bar, a rooftop terrace open to the public, provides panoramic views of Palma and the bay. It stands as a testament to the Cuba’s enduring legacy, a place where history and modern life converge. The Cuban Latin American Cultural Association in Mallorca, active in Palma, further emphasizes the Cuban connection. Their work to promote Cuban and Latin American culture adds another layer to the city’s rich tapestry.