Havana is the capital
city, largest city, province, major port, and leading commercial center of
Cuba. The city has a population of 2.1 million inhabitants, and it spans a
total of 781.58 km3 (187.51 cu mi) – making it the largest city by area, the
most populous city, and the fourth largest metropolitan area in the Caribbean
region. The city of Havana was founded by the Spanish in the 16th century and
due to its strategic location, it served as a springboard for the Spanish
conquest of the Americas, becoming a stopping point for treasure-laden Spanish
galleons returning to Spain. King Philip II of Spain granted Havana the title
of City in 1592. Walls as well as forts were built to protect the old city. The
sinking of the U.S. battleship Maine in Havana's harbor in 1898 was the
immediate cause of the Spanish–American War. Contemporary Havana can
essentially be described as three cities in one: Old Havana, Vedado and the
newer suburban districts. The city is the center of the Cuban government, and
home to various ministries, headquarters of businesses and over 90 diplomatic
offices.
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