Crisis, postmodernity and strategic planning in Havana

Abstract

The Revolution’s first urban planning schemes corresponded to structuralist sociological models that took an all-embracing approach to the social transformation processes associated with urban transformation. The Plan Director 1980-2000 (1980-2000 Master Plan) took the step from functional constructivism towards the concept of Havana as a city-region, whose components made up an adaptable and flexible whole. The shape of collective urban space adopted semiological criteria to become a clear expression of the political, economic and social structure. During what was called the “special period” of the 1990’s, there was a change in the basic model of the economy. Attracting international tourism became a priority, conditioned by international demand for the tourist product. Territorial and urban planning assumed the reality of the crisis and proposed changes designed to create structures that were both more flexible and better suited to a changing reality. The urban planning schemes were preceded by post-modern strategic plans, in line with strategic thinking for cities.