Che Guevara is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic revolutionaries of the 20th century. A convinced Marxist, the symbol of the Cuban revolution has left its mark throughout Cuba. His controversial journey fascinates, as much as the places he was able to go. Here are some ways to follow in the footsteps of the guerrilla leader.
Havana, a must-see
Who says tourism in the footsteps of Ernesto Guevara, necessarily says a visit to Havana. This destination is an integral part of the history of the famous Castro Revolution. For history buffs, traveling around Havana will give you a first glimpse of El Comandante’s accomplishments. Havana is first and foremost a place that we visit for the beauty of its architecture. Pass through the old town to discover the Museum of the Revolution. The building, which was once a presidential palace, has been converted into a museum, exclusively exhibiting objects and photos linked to the revolutionary. During your stay, you can also go to the other side of the bay. Here you will find Che Guevara’s former HQ, in the San Carlos Fortress. Then head to the Place de la Révolution, where the force of the rebellion continues to thrill popular culture aficionados.
Take a trip to Pinard del Rio
To find out a little more about the Cuba by Che Guévara, consider visiting the West of the country. The small province of Pinar de Rio is a must! At the Cueva de los Portales, you will find a cave where the revolutionary took refuge. The location became the movement’s headquarters during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Occupied since 1962, the Cueva de los Portales was considered a vacation spot. For El Comandante and his troops, this new HQ in the heart of the National Park was ideal for staying safe. Now a small museum, the natural fortress has retained the period furniture. During your visit, you will discover Che’s bed, or the table on which he placed his famous chessboard.
The colorful streets of Santa Clara
Although Havana’s tourist appeal is undeniable, the city offers only a brief glimpse of the scale of the revolution. The colorful streets of Santa Clara will transport you to the very heart of the events where the famous revolutionary left his mark on history. Since the end of the revolution, Santa Clara has been widely considered the only true Guevarist capital. It was here that El Comandante and his supporters won a significant victory by managing to seize an armored train. The interception of the convoy, filled with ammunition intended for the regular army, was an episode inseparable from the fall of Batista. During your visit, you will be able to discover the Armored Train Monument, preserved in memory of this event. The site exhibits the 4 wagons which have been converted into a museum. Santa Clara is the city where the revolution began, but also where it ended. End your visit at Revolution Square, where Che’s Mausoleum has stood since the revolutionary’s death in 1997.
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