Los Frailes

‘The Friars’ is a 22 room hotel (18 comfortable rooms – 4 minisuites) opened in 2001 in the heart of Old Havana steps from the majestic convent of San Francisco de Asis and the populous Old Square. The former mansion of the fourth Marquis and Captain of the French Navy, Don Pedro Claudio Duquesne, it was once visited by the finest nobility, ecclesiastical dignitaries, military authorities, renowned artists, and the best of creole and foreign society. The hotel is excellently furbished around a monastic theme it takes very seriously. Bronze monks, crucifixes and Gregorian chants abound. The air-conditioned rooms are basically cells with antique style en-suite spacious bathrooms, period furnishings, thick wooden beds. satellite TV, minibar, national and international telephone access and safety deposit box. Steps away from all of the action of Old Havana, this is one of the quietest places to sleep in Old Havana. Fax machine and photocopy access. Internet café. Lobby bar. Visitors will be awed by the many attractive highlights, particularly the decorative and sacred works of art and courtyard waterfall. All of the staff, even the maids, are sheepishly dressed in ersatz sackcloth and cowls. There is no restaurant but you’re surrounded by restaurants and music. Breakfast is served in a restaurant across the street. Moderately priced. Highly recommended.