A large fire destroyed what remained of the La Concha social club in Playa municipality, Havana, which had been in ruins for years.
The fire started on Thursday afternoon, and it wasn't until several hours later, well into the night, that the firefighters managed to extinguish it. When the flames were somewhat under control, they flared up again.
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Photos and videos shared online show a thick column of black smoke, visible from various points in the city. The fire impacted the main building of the facility, which has been in a state of total neglect for decades.
The incident did not result in any casualties, although it did cause significant damage to the infrastructure of the area.
Although there is no official confirmation at this time, reports circulating on the internet suggest that the cause was a beach bonfire that did not receive proper attention.
The former La Concha beach club was inaugurated in 1929. Located at 3rd and 120, it featured elegant architecture and a practical design created by the New York firm Schultze & Weaver. The club offered restaurant and café services, enhancing the enjoyment of maritime activities on Marianao beach.
After 1959, it suffered the same fate as its neighboring private clubs. La Concha was expropriated from its rightful owners and handed over to the labor unions under the pretext of "democratizing" access to the resort.
It was transformed into a workers' social circle and today it shows signs of complete deterioration, another example of the regime's negligence, which confiscated luxurious properties from private individuals only to let them fall into total abandonment.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fire at La Concha and the Neglect of Heritage in Havana
What happened in the fire at La Concha in Havana?
A large fire destroyed what remained of the social club La Concha, located in Playa municipality, Havana. The place had been in ruins for years, and the fire consumed the main building. Fortunately, there were no casualties, but there was significant material damage.
What was the possible cause of the fire at La Concha?
Although there is no official confirmation, it is speculated that the fire may have been caused by a campfire on the beach that did not receive proper attention. The flames reignited even while the fire was partially under control.
What is the current state of historic buildings in Havana?
Many historical buildings in Havana, such as La Concha, are in a state of abandonment and deterioration. The regime's neglect has led to the collapse of these structures, which were once symbols of luxury and culture. The case of La Concha is another example of how the city's architectural heritage is being overlooked.
Why is the abandonment of iconic places a problem in Cuba?
The neglect of iconic places in Cuba, such as La Concha and others in Havana, reflects a lack of management and maintenance by the regime. This not only affects the cultural heritage but also negatively impacts the quality of life for residents, who live surrounded by ruins and in unsanitary conditions.
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