The Nine O’Clock Cannon Shot is a unique ceremony that takes place every night in the Cuban capital, and whichcurrently constitutes a source of entertainment not only for Cubans but also for many foreign visitors.This ceremony is done at the San Carlos de La Cabaña Castle, which is the oldest of all the ancient colonial fortresses present in Cuba

Around half-way through the XVIII century, the city of Havana was surrounded by a strong and thick wall that protected it form corsairs and pirates. The wall had several gates. In that time, it was customary to perform one shotaround 4:30 am to let the population know that the gates were being opened. Likewise, another shot was performed at 8:00 pm that warned the citizens that the drawbridges were being raised and the gatesclosed. It is believed that the first cannon used for this means was called El Fuerte. After that, other cannons with original names were used, some of these are: Luperto, La Hermosa, and others.

With the passing of time, the cannon shot was moved to 9:00pm. When the walls were removed in the second half of the XVIII century, this cannon shot tradition continued only at night.Then, on June 21st, 1942, this tradition stopped when the head of the Cuban army, General Manuel López Migoya, announced the suspension of the cannon shot tradition in order to save powder “because we are at war”.

In that time, World War II was taking place. Despite the people’s complains, the cannon shot stopped being heard until the end of the war. After December 1st, 1945, this famous tradition of shooting a cannonball was resumed.  The cannon that is usually used to perform the shot is known as Luperto, which was constructed in 1736 and belonged to the 21st Battery.

In order to assure that the shot takes place even if the Luperto fails, there is a modern cannon ready to guarantee that the 9 o’clock cannon shot is still heard.The ceremony of performing the shot at 9 o’clock has become very popular for some years now, even the artillerymen dress the traditional uniform of the time the tradition started.

The Nine O’clock Cannon Shot constitutes one of the most original traditions in Cuba and specifically in Havana. Something that makes this ceremony stand out, is the fact that it is not a popular festival that occurs once a year, but something that happens every day. Besides, it is also helpful for the locals and visitors that may be near the area to adjust their watches, because you can be sure that the shot will take place at 9 o’clock sharp.