Alicia Cervera

Few people can look at Miami’s skyline and see as much of their life’s work as Alicia Cervera. Long before Brickell became a neighborhood of luxury towers, she recognized its potential and helped attract developers and international buyers. Today, the woman known as the Queen of Brickell remains chairman of Cervera Real Estate, the company she founded in 1969.

Alicia was born in Lima, Peru, in 1930, and developed an early interest in real estate through her mother, who built homes and often took her along to construction sites. Years later, she settled in Havana, where she married Javier Cervera. They enjoyed a comfortable life until they had to leave Cuba in 1961. On their way to Miami, Javier insisted on flying first class, with caviar and champagne. It would be their last taste of luxury for years.

© Alicia Cervera

Alicia spotted an opportunity when she learned that Brickell Avenue was being rezoned for apartment buildings. With just $2 in the bank, she pursued a $95,000 property, raising the down payment by pawning jewelry, selling her daughter’s Woolworth stock, and taking on a partner. She signed the contract while in the hospital, preparing to give birth.

Her breakthrough came when she approached New York developer Harry Helmsley about marketing The Palace condominium. Its successful presales helped establish her reputation, and she eventually participated in 48 major projects along Brickell. She also saw the potential of Latin American buyers in a time when many local brokers overlooked them.

Miami has recognized Alicia’s influence in several ways. In 2016, October 18th was declared Alicia Cervera Day, and in 2022, a stretch of South Miami Avenue was named in her honor. 

Alicia has also spent decades supporting Clínica San Juan de Dios, a hospital for children with disabilities in her native Peru.

© Alicia Cervera

The business Alicia started is now in the hands of her daughters, Veronica Cervera Goeseke and Alicia Cervera Lamadrid, with her granddaughter Alicia Lamadrid Paysse also playing an important role. The company celebrated Alicia’s 95th birthday in 2025 by sharing some of the key lessons that Alicia learned throughout her career. Nowadays, Alicia remains chairman and is still involved in the business she built.

Alicia has also spoken about the need for more affordable housing in Miami. After helping transform Brickell, she still sees opportunities for the city to improve. Her daughter Veronica once summed up her mother's impact perfectly. When she looks at Miami's skyline, she sees her mother's name.