Cuba is observing nine days of national mourning for former President Fidel Castro, who has died at the age of 90.
The socialist revolutionary's death was announced by his brother, Raul Castro, the incumbent Cuban president, on state television late on Friday.
In his address the elderly leader said Mr Castro, who ruled Cuba since 1959 and survived countless assassination attempts, died at 10.29pm on Friday.
World leaders have paid tribute to Fidel Castro, the former Cuban revolutionary leader who has died aged 90.
Russian President Vladimir Putin called the late leader an "inspiring example for many countries", adding that he was a "frank and tried and true friend of Russia."
In Venezuela, a long-time ally of Cuba and staunch opponent of the political stance of the United States, President Nicolas Maduro said Castro had inspired and would continue to inspire his country.
"We will keep on winning and keep fighting. Fidel Castro is an example of the fight for all the people of the world. We will go forward with his legacy."
Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa said: "A great has left us. Fidel has died. Long live Cuba! Long live Latin America!"
South African President Jacob Zuma had similar warm words, saying: "President Castro identified with our struggle against apartheid. He inspired the Cuban people to join us in our own struggle against apartheid."
Thousands of people turned out to bid farewell to Fidel Castro as the former Cuban leader's ashes began their final journey.
Raul Castro and South American leaders were among those who attended a massive evening tribute to the late Cuban president.
Kim Jong Un, leader of North Korea, has paid his respects to Fidel Castro, former leader of Cuba.