The Center is the realization of the initiative of the Office of the Archbishop of Havana for the promotion of Cuban culture, starting with its Christian roots. It is the continuation of the educational work of the Catholic Church, which has been ongoing for centuries in this same location of the Old Royal Seminary of San Carlos and San Ambrosio. In the 19th Century, the location had as a Professor of Philosophy and Sciences Father Felix Varela, who is one of the founders of our Cuban Nationality.
At the present time, the Center is the actual home of the Cardinal Jaime Ortega Foundation in Havana. It is the Center of numerous educational, artistic and communication activities, which give it a life of its own but which also contribute to a harmonious presence which in turn gives pluralistic, capillary support to broader society, respectful of religious or philosophical options of participants.
The Center opens its doors to all who wish to share their personal talents with others, while at the same time benefitting from what others bring.
The Father Felix Varela Cultural Center includes:
- Fine arts exhibits;
- Concerts and cultural evenings that bring together a variety of artistic performances;
- Academic events on social, cultural and religious themes;
- A space for dialogue on topics of current public interest;
- Permanent exchanges with individuals and institutions whose day-to-day work is based at the Center, including production of magazines, a printing operation, a nursery, a social research center, and the like;
- The Father Felix Varela Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies;
- The Chair for the study of Sacred Music;
- The “Cuba Emprende” Program; and
- A Museum and Collections.
The Cardinal Jaime Ortega Foundation covers part of the economic needs of the Father Felix Varela Cultural Center.