'From Venezuela we celebrate the 501 years of history and resistance of Havana. A city that houses in its streets the rebellion, joy, music and verses of the heroic Cuban people. We hope to enjoy its warmth very soon. Long live Cuba, Long live Havana!', the President tweeted.

The festivities will be held in the middle of the epidemiological panorama that the world is experiencing due to the scourge of the pandemic, which Cuba has not escaped.

Inauguration of public works and other activities preceded the celebrations in the country, whose people and government are trying to overcome the effects of Covid-19 and the economic crisis, exacerbated by the intensification of the economic blockade imposed by the United States.

The traditional walk around the ceiba tree was held on Sunday at the Templete garden, considered the foundational point of the city, as a prelude to the celebrations.

The celebrations on this occasion are characterized by compliance with sanitary measures and the tribute to Eusebio Leal, historian of the City, who died last July and architect of the restoration works of the historic center of Havana.

The founding of the Villa de San Cristóbal de La Habana is celebrated on November 16th, with 1519 taken as the year of founding, a date that appears expressed in documents from the colonial period.