Don Francisco de Albear Y Lara was one of Havana’s finest engineers and noted for his work on Havana’s aqueduct which still functions today. This monument, once destined for the cemetery was executed by Jose Vilalta de Saavedra in 1893 and placed in this park also dedicated to Albear.

About Don Francisco de Albear Y Lara Monument

Don Francisco de Albear Y Lara Monument

This fine sculpture of Don Francisco de Albear y Lara represents one of Havana’s most brilliant engineers. Born in January 1816 he passed away on the 23th of October 1887.

Shortly after his death, the city council of Havana decided to change the name of the Albear Canal to Vento Canal. As a mark of respect though, on the 3rd of August 1891 they decided to erect a monument to Albear in the city cemetery. After a change of heart it was relocated to this tiny plaza – also named in his honour – at the end of Calle Obispo and O’Reilly.

            Don Francisco is most known for his work on Havana’s aqueduct system, a highly respected piece of engineering that is still functioning today.

            The Cuban sculptor Jose Vilalta de Saavedra executed this work of art in 1893 and it was eventually inaugurated on the 15th of March 1895.

The fountain around the “sculpture complex perpetuates the never-ending efforts of this man for providing Havana with a water system”.

References

Juan de las Cuevas Toraya, 500 Años De Construcciones En Cuba, Havana 2001, p106.

http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/vivid-sculptures-in-havana-450992.html

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