Russ L.
Google
Known as Cas de Don Mateo Pedro. Noteworthy in this 18th Century mansion is the 32 meter long continuous balcony on its facade, one of the longest built in Cuba. Its exterior have been compared with the Inquisition Palace in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia.
In spite of its varied functions throughout it's long history, it is very well preserved. The Pedroso families were descendants of noble families in Havana and Don Mateo was alderman of the city and one of the most influential figures of the colonial government. Late in the 19th century, the house serve successively as Court, jail, and police headquarters. It became a tenement house in the 20th century and was later refurbished for its present role as a shop. Today it is the Palacio de la Artesania, a gift shop. The complex sells cigars, coffee, rum, Cuban music and art, fashion, sports clothes and T Shirts including guanabera shirts, shoes, jewelry, watches, fans and books.
