As a result, he persuaded Castro to pass part of the profits from commercial businesses set up in the area to fund the restoration.

[3] Leal was accorded unparalleled freedom from government intervention, such as being granted US$1 million in seed money to be used at his own discretion.

[3] The successful revitalization effort, and the broad powers given to him by the government, resulted in Leal becoming the de facto mayor of Old Havana.

[2] He was also a member of the ruling Cuban Communist Party's elite Central Committee and eventually, was regarded as an elder statesman.

[5] He established his own radio and television show entitled, "Andar la Habana", in which he chronicled forgotten historical accounts while taking a stroll down the streets of Old Havana.

[4] His predominantly moderate political positions led to him being excluded from a key promotion when Raul became president in February 2008; however, he ultimately remained in his post.

[6] His faith drew the ire of many bureaucrats within the party,[3] however, he saw no disjuncture between religion and revolution, stating in a 2010 interview that "for me they were never incompatible".

[13] Subsequently, during a visit to Cuba by Felipe VI of Spain in November 2019, he was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Charles III.

[15][16] In addition to those from his home country, Leal received honorary degrees from universities in Chile,[13] Greece, Italy, Peru, and Uruguay.