Built in 1772, the impressive Moorish-inspired part Baroque, part Neoclassical structure features a classic limestone façade with Cadiz-style shutters and windows overlooking an open central courtyard. Tucked within the northwest corner of Plaza de Armas Square, the Palacio del Segundo Cabo was originally built to serve as a Royal Post Office by the Spanish crown, before becoming the official residence of the vice-captain general in the mid-19th century.

Since then, the Palacio del Segundo Cabo has served several functions, including the Senate Palace, the Supreme Court, and the National Academy of Arts and Letters. Today, it serves as a diverse cultural museum home to the Instituto Cubano del Libro and other cultural institutions, dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of paraphernalia pertaining to Cuban-European relations. Culture vultures and museum lovers will enjoy exploring the Palacio del Segundo Cabo, especially the excellent Raúl Martínez Gallery Room, an amazing collection of contemporary art, that lies within.