Revolution Square is the political stage of revolutionary Cuba.
Into this charged atmosphere on Sunday came Pope Francis, celebrating an outdoor Mass attended by President Raúl Castro, the leadership of his Communist government and tens of thousands of Cubans.
For those hoping Francis would speak about political freedom during his visit here, the moment seemed ripe.
And Francis did speak about politics.
Colombian politics.
He encouraged that country's peace talks.
As the first Latin American pope, Francis is enormously influential in his native region, which has raised expectations and pressures that he will wade into regional politics.
His role in brokering the diplomatic breakthrough between Cuba and the United States has only raised his credibility.
Yet he is careful to avoid seeming too political and is being especially careful in navigating the politics of Cuba.
This cautiousness has frustrated some Cuban dissidents who want a public meeting with the pope.