Source: Photograph (2010) by WTL© of the Malecón on Havana's north shore facing the Straits of Florida.
Comments: The word malecón means 'dike' or 'breakwater.' It is one of Havana's most prominent features as it is an esplanade, seawall, and broad avenue that runs eight miles along the waterfront. At the far left is the Castillo del Morro, which faces another fortress, the Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta (popular: La Punta), both together protecting the entrance to Havana Bay in the Port of Havana. Construction on the Malecón was begun by the American occupation forces in 1901, and it was ended in 1952.
Humanities issues: Research the significance of the Malecón to the quality of life in Havana. What role do you think the Malecón plays in the psychology of Havana residents who look out over the waters of the Strait of Florida knowing that Key West is 90 miles to the north?
Other images of the Malecón: => Havana 2a and Havana 2b.