The well-known Cuban actor and screenwriter Ulises Toirac expressed his sorrow on Monday over the poor condition of buildings that once showcased the splendor of Havana. These structures are now crumbling amidst a stark contrast between decay and modernity, exemplified by the famous Palace Building in Vedado.
Using the social media platform Facebook, the artist shared an image of the building, highlighting its “almost heritage” art deco style. For years, the structure has been plagued by numerous leaks and seepages of both water and gas. "The building stands in its dilapidation while, in the background, the new vision of a Havana that forgets what made it famous imposes itself," wrote the comedian, pointing out the contradiction between the old and the new with flashy new constructions (for tourism).
The current state of the Palace Building is not a recent development. Residents have long reported leaks, gas escapes, and other issues. "Several years ago, we experienced a leak that damaged the lobby. According to some building residents who reported the situation to housing authorities, the leak has no solution, but the damage has since spread beyond," wrote Facebook user Katia Suárez Torres in 2022, alarmed that the Palace, located at the corner of 25 and G, might become a tragedy similar to the Hotel Saratoga incident.
Since then, Suárez has pointed out the incomprehensible neglect by authorities in addressing these problems and providing residents with a coherent explanation for the water running through walls and ceilings. "It is heartbreaking to see the only roof you have for your family being destroyed due to the irresponsibility of some neighbors and the lack of response from those in charge of this matter. I need answers, and more than that, I need a solution," she added.
Toirac’s post has brought the Palace’s condition back into the spotlight, once again highlighting the declining state of housing in the Caribbean nation, which has been deteriorating for decades. Recently, headlines have been filled with reports of partial collapses of about twenty buildings in the “Wonder City” due to intense rains.
The heavy rains have burdened infrastructures that suffer from a lack of maintenance, with no investment in the residential sector, and overcrowding forcing families to divide spaces, often improvising. Meanwhile, hotels like the Torre K, managed by the Spanish company Iberostar, rise without issues. The tower stands 154 meters tall, with 42 floors and a total of 565 rooms, all five-star rated.
This project aligns with the regime's programs, which in 2023, for example, invested more in tourism development than in social infrastructure, health, and education—a trend that has become habitual.
Frequently Asked Questions about the State of Vedado's Palace Building
Here are some common questions and answers regarding the deteriorating condition of the Palace Building in Vedado, as discussed by Ulises Toirac and concerned residents.
What did Ulises Toirac say about the Palace Building?
Ulises Toirac lamented the poor condition of the Palace Building, highlighting its art deco style and the numerous leaks and gas escapes it has faced for years.
What issues have residents reported about the Palace Building?
Residents have reported several issues, including leaks that damage the lobby, gas escapes, and inadequate responses from housing authorities.
How have recent rains affected buildings in Havana?
Recent intense rains have caused partial collapses of about twenty buildings in Havana, exacerbating the already deteriorating state of the city's infrastructure.
What new construction projects are ongoing in Havana?
New construction projects, such as the Torre K managed by Iberostar, are ongoing. These projects often receive more investment than social infrastructure, health, and education.