Granma Memorial, Havana

The Granma Memorial in Havana stands as a powerful reminder of a crucial moment in Cuban history, immortalizing the yacht that played a central role in the Cuban Revolution. The Granma, a 60-foot diesel-powered cabin cruiser built in 1943, holds significant meaning as it transported revolutionaries, including Fidel Castro, from Mexico to Cuba in 1956. This bold journey aimed to overthrow the regime of Fulgencio Batista and marked a turning point in Cuban history. The yacht, originally designed to accommodate twelve people, was named "Granma" after the original owner's grandmother, symbolizing its unexpected role in shaping the nation's destiny.

Since 1976, the Granma has been preserved and exhibited in a glass enclosure at the Granma Memorial, located next to the Museum of the Revolution in central Havana. This memorial not only pays homage to the yacht but also honors the bravery and determination of those who embarked on the risky journey for freedom and change. Preserving the Granma in this way allows visitors and future generations to contemplate the historical significance of this event.

Moreover, the impact of the Granma's voyage goes beyond the immediate success of the revolutionaries. In tribute to the vessel and the historic expedition, a part of the old Oriente Province, where the revolutionaries landed, was renamed Granma Province. Additionally, the Landing of the Granma National Park was established at the site, further solidifying the yacht's legacy in Cuban national memory.

Tip:
To get a close-up view of the yacht and a sample of 15 military vehicles used in the Cuban Revolution, pay the price of admission to the Museum of the Revolution.

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and LukaszKatlewa.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Havana. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Granma Memorial
Sight Location: Havana, Cuba (See walking tours in Havana)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Havana, Cuba

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