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Morro Castle

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro, commonly known as El Morro, is a prominent fortress guarding the entrance to Havana Bay. Constructed between 1589 and 1630 based on designs by Italian engineer Battista Antonelli, the fort was built to protect the city from pirate attacks and enemy fleets. With its massive stone walls, deep moats, and strategically placed cannons, it served for centuries as a cornerstone of Spanish defensive strategy in the Caribbean. A standout feature is its lighthouse, which replaced the original stone tower in 1845 and continues to serve as a navigational aid today. The fortress suffered significant damage during the British siege of 1762 but was extensively renovated and reinforced after being returned to Spanish control. Today, the Castillo is a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses museums dedicated to maritime history and military fortifications. Its ramparts offer spectacular views of the Havana skyline and the open sea.

Location: Cuba
Top sights: Bodeguita del medio · Plaza de la Catedral
Nearby: Batabanó (10 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	22	24	25	27	28	29	29	29	28	27	25	24
Rain mm	30	29	23	33	64	108	83	108	102	87	45	30

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Morro Castle is an impressive fortress at the entrance to Havana Harbor and is open for visits. You can explore the walls, lighthouse, and cannon positions.

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Typical hours

The fortress is usually open daily from morning to afternoon. Late afternoon it often closes before sunset; check exact times locally.

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Photography

The fortress gives spectacular photo subjects over the harbor and Havana skyline. Photograph the lighthouse and old cannons, but be mindful of security areas.

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Time needed

A visit to Morro Castle usually takes one to two hours. The walk to the lighthouse and along the walls is rewarding but tiring in the heat.

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Combine with

The fortress faces Castillo de la Real Fuerza on the other side of the harbor. You can take a ferry across the harbor and visit both fortresses in one day.

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Getting there

Morro Castle is reachable by taxi or classic car, the drive along the seawall is scenic. Alternatively, a ferry runs from the old town pier.

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Insider tip

Visit the fortress in the late afternoon to see the sunset over the harbor. Bring plenty of water, as it can be very hot and windy up there.

Geography

Coordinates

23.14000, -82.35200

Facts

The construction of the fortress took over 40 years, starting in 1589.
The El Morro lighthouse stands approximately 25 meters tall.
The fort was captured by the British in 1762 after a 44-day siege.
The walls are partially carved directly into the natural coastal rock.
El Morro worked in tandem with Castillo de la Punta to defend the bay.
The traditional 'Cañonazo' ceremony takes place nearby every evening.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Castillo de la Punta<1 km · EExplore →

Havana2 km · SExplore →

Santiago de las Vegas3 km · WExplore →

Lenin Park3 km · SExplore →

Almendares River5 km · SExplore →

Hemingway House6 km · NExplore →

Fortress of Cojímar8 km · NExplore →

Batabanó10 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Morro Castle (2)

Bodeguita del medio📍 landmark

Famous bar in Havana, known for mojitos and Cuban food, a popular spot for tourists.

Plaza de la Catedral📍 landmark

Square in Havana, surrounded by colonial buildings, with the San Cristóbal cathedral at its center.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Castillo del Morro?

An iconic fortress at the entrance to Havana Harbor, famous for its lighthouse.

When does the cannon shot ceremony take place?

The 'Cañonazo' ceremony takes place every evening punctually at 9:00 PM.

How do you reach the fortress?

The best way is by taxi through the tunnel under the bay or by local ferry.

Can you climb the lighthouse?

Yes, for a small fee, you can climb the tower to enjoy the view.

How much is the entrance fee to the site?

Entrance is about 6-8 USD for tourists, slightly more in the evening for the ceremony.

Morro Castle: where is it located?

Morro Castle is located in Cuba.

Morro Castle: what is there to see?

Highlights include Bodeguita del medio, Plaza de la Catedral.

Morro Castle: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

Morro Castle: why is it worth visiting?

The Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro, commonly known as El Morro, is a prominent fortress guarding the entrance to Havana Bay.

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