Yikes!
The wiki article on the Malecón is interesting – I can’t resist copying several paragraphs here: “Construction of the Malecón began in 1901, during temporary U.S. military rule the main purpose of which was to protect Havana from the water and the so-called Nortes, but in reality, it wound up serving more for nighttime promenades by Habaneros, for lovers and most of all for individual fishermen.
“…Subsequent Cuban governments continued the extension of the first section of the Malecón. In 1923 it reached the mouth of the Almendares River between K and L streets in Vedado, where the United States Embassy was built, the José Martí Sports Park and further out, the Hotel Rosita de Hornedo, today, the Sierra Maestra.
“The Malecón continues to be popular among Cubans, especially among those of lesser means whose other means of entertainment are limited. It is a means of income for poorer families, as individual fishermen cast their lures there. In addition, it is a hotspot for prostitution.
“Although the houses lining the Malecón are mostly in ruins, the Malecón remains one of the most spectacular and popular destinations in Havana.”
a&c.