Iglesia del Espiritu Santo

The Iglesia del Espíritu Santo (Church of the Holy Spirit) is Havana's oldest church. It contains several notable paintings and a crypt with catacombs.

The Iglesia del Espíritu Santo was built in 1638 by Afro-Cubans who were brought to the island as slaves but later bought their freedom. Appropriately, it's the only church in Havana authorized to grant political asylum.

Inside the church are several notable paintings, including a seated, post-crucifixion Christ on the right wall.

The crypt, entered from the left of the altar, contains catacombs, which you can visit with the custodian-guide who speaks a little English ($1 tip appreciated).

The three-story belfry to the left of the church is one of the tallest towers in Old Havana.