Parque Central is the beating heart of Havana, located at the intersection of Old Havana and Centro Habana. Founded in 1877, it features a monument to José Martí, Cuba's independence hero. It is surrounded by magnificent historic buildings including the Hotel Inglaterra, Gran Teatro, and El Capitolio. The park is famous for its 'Esquina Caliente' (hot corner) where Cubans gather daily for passionate baseball debates. Royal palm trees and shaded benches make it an ideal spot to rest and observe everyday Cuban life and the constant parade of classic American cars.