A stroll along the narrow streets of old Havana is akin to skimming the pages of a history book. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, the district encompasses a historical heritage spanning four centuries of architecture. However, in contrast to this quarter popular with tourists, characterised by its three main historic squares (Armas, Catedral, Vieja) and boasting the pomp of yesterday thanks to an ambitious restoration programme, the south and west are in an advanced state of dilapidation.