Tropicana Club: The legendary cabaret of Havana

The Tropicana Club in Havana served as a cultural epicenter during the 1940s and 1950s. Established in 1939 on a wooded site in the Marianao neighborhood, the cabaret became a legendary destination for international visitors.

Italian-Cuban entrepreneur Martín Fox is credited with transforming the venue into a world-class spectacle by recruiting elite choreographers, musicians, and designers. The club was noted for its elaborate productions, featuring performers in massive, heavy costumes and intricate headpieces.

A significant architectural highlight of the venue is the Salón Arcos de Cristal, designed by architect Max Borges. The structure is recognized as a masterpiece of modern architecture, featuring a massive concrete vault that appears to float without visible columns. The stage hosted renowned international artists, including Nat King Cole.