Attraction Guide: Museum of the Revolution, Havana, Cuba

Museum of the Revolution Guide

Step Back in Time: Witness Cuba's Revolutionary Journey Guide

The Museum of the Revolution in Havana is a must-see for anyone interested in Cuban history and the events that shaped the nation. Housed in the former Presidential Palace, it offers a fascinating and often dramatic account of the Cuban Revolution, from its roots in the Batista dictatorship to the triumph of Fidel Castro and his revolutionaries. Prepare to be immersed in a world of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that bring this pivotal period to life. The building itself has a rich history, originally serving as the Presidential Palace until the revolution in 1959. Before that, it was the site of the Presidential Palace during the Gerardo Machado dictatorship, and was the target of an attack by the Revolutionary Directorate in 1957. After the revolution, it was transformed into the Museum of the Revolution, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the struggle. Inside, you'll find exhibits detailing the key figures, battles, and events of the revolution, as well as insights into the political and social context of the time. Visitors can explore a vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, vehicles, and personal belongings of revolutionary figures. Highlights include the yacht Granma, which transported Fidel Castro and his comrades from Mexico to Cuba, and a replica of the command post used by Che Guevara in the Sierra Maestra mountains. The museum also features exhibits on the pre-revolutionary period, the Bay of Pigs invasion, and the subsequent development of socialist Cuba. While exploring, take time to appreciate the building's architecture, including the Hall of Mirrors, which was once used for state receptions.