Homenaje a José Martí, Vigo, Galicia, España
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José Martí Memorial

4.6
·554 reviews·La Habana, Cuba

Iconic star-shaped tower and statue honoring Cuba's national hero, José Martí, offering stunning Havana views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Escape the midday heat

CrowdLow
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Homenaje a José Martí, Vigo, Galicia, España

José Martí Memorial

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Escape the midday heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic star-shaped tower and statue honoring Cuba's national hero, José Martí, offering stunning Havana views.

4.6
(554 reviews)

"A must-visit in Havana for its grandeur, history, and breathtaking panoramic city views."

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense midday sun. Stay hydrated!

⬆️ Climb for Views

Don't miss the observatory tower for spectacular Havana panoramas. Worth the climb!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Towering Star

The Towering Star

Center of Plaza de la Revolución

An imposing star-shaped tower, the tallest in Havana, offering panoramic city vistas.

Statue of the Hero

Statue of the Hero

Base of the tower

A powerful statue of José Martí, surrounded by six solemn columns, a symbol of Cuban independence.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Observatory Tower

Ascend to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of Havana's sprawling cityscape.

Educational Museum

Educational Museum

Ground floor

Discover the life and achievements of José Martí and Cuban history in this insightful museum.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Havana's sun can be intense! Plan your visit to the José Martí Memorial during the cooler morning or late afternoon hours to avoid sweltering heat and maximize your exploration time. Early visits also mean fewer tour groups.

Unlock the Views and History

Don't just admire from afar! Consider climbing the observatory tower for spectacular city views and explore the small museum inside to truly appreciate José Martí's legacy. Free guided tours are available, but remember to tip your guide.

Best Times

When
Morning or Late Afternoon
Why
Escape the midday heat
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Traveling to Havana, Cuba for 4 days. What to do to ensure I have the most fun?

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense midday sun. Stay hydrated! Reddit

⬆️ Climb for Views

Don't miss the observatory tower for spectacular Havana panoramas. Worth the climb! Reddit

reddit.com

If you recent went to cuba, what was the single best part of your trip?

reddit.com

Any tips for a first time traveler to Havana?

🧠 Learn the History

The museum offers great insights into José Martí and Cuba's past. Free tours available. Reddit

💰 Tip Your Guide

Free English tours are offered, but a tip is expected for the guide's time and knowledge. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense midday sun. Stay hydrated! Reddit

⬆️ Climb for Views

Don't miss the observatory tower for spectacular Havana panoramas. Worth the climb! Reddit

🧠 Learn the History

The museum offers great insights into José Martí and Cuba's past. Free tours available. Reddit

💰 Tip Your Guide

Free English tours are offered, but a tip is expected for the guide's time and knowledge. Reddit

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The architecture is stunning. Get wide shots of the square and close-ups of the details. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(554 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the José Martí Memorial as an iconic Havana landmark, highlighting its impressive architecture and the spectacular city views from the observatory tower. The museum is noted for its educational value regarding Cuban history and José Martí's life. However, some find the midday heat challenging and suggest planning visits for cooler hours.

"It's impossible to come to Havana and not visit the Revolution Square and it's primary monument. José Marti's memorial is on the northern part of the Square, right in front of the monument."

Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari

"Located at the center of Plaza de la Revolución Square in the Vedado area of Havana, the José Martí Memorial stands as an iconic landmark. This impressive monument measures 142 meters in height and 78.50 meters in diameter, making it the tallest structure in Havana. It consists of a star shaped tower, a statue of Marti surrounded by six columns, and gardens. Its grandeur serves as a testament to the profound admiration Cubans hold for their national hero.

Upon arriving at the square at noon, we encountered sweltering heat, limiting our stay for long period. Regrettably this constrained us from visiting the museum and observatory tower. Next time then. For future reference, it is advisable to plan visits during the morning or evening when temperatures are more tolerable. Guided tours in English are available without charge, with the expectation of a tip."

C Khan

"This is a must visit if you're in havana. This large monument to Jose Marti, who was a political figure in the late 1800's. You can turn and see the wall memorials to Castro and Guevara."

Eric Mccraney

What People Like

Impressive architecture
Panoramic city views
Educational museum

What People Dislike

Intense midday heat

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The memorial is located in the heart of Plaza de la Revolución in Vedado, Havana. Taxis are readily available and a common way to reach the square. Many city tours will also include a stop here. If you're feeling adventurous, you might be able to catch a local bus, but taxis offer the most convenience. Reddit

Plaza de la Revolución is a large public space, and while there isn't dedicated parking for the memorial itself, there's usually ample space within the square for cars and taxis to stop. If you're driving yourself, be mindful of any event-related closures. Reddit

Walking from Old Havana to the José Martí Memorial is a significant distance (several kilometers) and can be very hot, especially during the day. It's generally recommended to take a taxi or public transport for this journey. Reddit

The memorial is the centerpiece of Plaza de la Revolución, which itself is a significant site. You can also explore the surrounding government buildings and the Museum of the Revolution (though this is a separate ticketed attraction). Reddit

Many visitors arrive by taxi or as part of a guided tour. The square is vast, so be prepared for some walking. Consider combining your visit with other Havana sights for a full day of exploration. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to the Plaza de la Revolución and the exterior of the memorial is free. However, there is a fee to enter the museum and to ascend the observatory tower for city views. Reddit

The museum and observatory tower typically have daytime operating hours, but these can vary. It's advisable to check locally or ask your guide for the most current times, as they may be subject to change. Reddit

While specific prices can fluctuate, expect a modest entrance fee for both the museum and the tower. The cost is generally considered reasonable for the experience and views offered. Reddit

Yes, free guided tours in English are often available for visitors. While the tours are complimentary, it is customary and appreciated to tip the guide for their time and knowledge. Reddit

The exterior of the memorial and Plaza de la Revolución are accessible at night, and it can be quite impressive when illuminated. However, the museum and observatory tower will be closed after dark. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the impressive star-shaped tower and the statue of José Martí. The site also houses a museum detailing his life and Cuban history, and an observatory tower offering panoramic city views. Reddit

If you're just viewing from the outside, an hour might suffice. However, to explore the museum and ascend the tower, plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the experience. Reddit

The tower involves climbing stairs or using an elevator. While generally accessible, those with significant mobility issues might find it challenging. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility options beforehand. Reddit

Capture wide shots of the entire square and memorial from a distance. Get closer for details of the statue and columns. The tower offers fantastic panoramic shots of Havana. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available within the memorial complex, particularly near the museum entrance. It's always a good idea to use them when you see them, as options can be limited elsewhere. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The sheer scale of the star tower and the statue of Martí are iconic. The panoramic views from the observatory tower are breathtaking. Don't forget to capture the surrounding architecture of Plaza de la Revolución. Reddit

Visiting during off-peak hours, like early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, can help minimize crowds and improve your photography experience. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, within the museum, there might be restrictions on flash photography or filming. It's always best to observe any posted signs. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight, but the starkness can also create dramatic shots. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around significant landmarks in Cuba. It's highly unlikely you'll be permitted to fly a drone here. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The sheer scale of the memorial and the square can be impressive for children, sparking curiosity about its size and purpose. The observatory tower offers a fun 'high up' experience with great views, which kids often enjoy. The museum provides educational content, but younger children might find it less engaging than the visual aspects of the monument and the tower. Reddit

Tip: Visit during cooler parts of the day to keep kids comfortable. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Consider focusing on the visual elements and the tower experience to maintain their interest. The open space of the plaza can also be good for them to move around a bit, under supervision. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

This memorial is a must-visit for anyone interested in Cuban history and the fight for independence. The museum offers detailed insights into the life and work of José Martí, a key figure in Cuban liberation. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the revolutionary period and Martí's enduring legacy. Reddit

Beyond the museum, the context of Plaza de la Revolución itself is historically significant, having hosted major political events. The architecture of the memorial is also a subject of study, reflecting national pride and revolutionary ideals. Consider taking a guided tour to get the most comprehensive historical narrative. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The José Martí Memorial offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. The imposing star tower, the detailed statue, and the surrounding columns provide strong architectural subjects. The panoramic views from the observatory tower are ideal for capturing sweeping cityscapes of Havana. Reddit

Best times for photos are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. Experiment with wide-angle lenses for the grand scale and telephoto lenses for details and distant cityscapes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of José Martí

José Martí was a pivotal figure in Cuba's fight for independence from Spain in the late 19th century. A prolific writer, poet, journalist, and revolutionary, he is revered as Cuba's national hero. His ideals of liberty, justice, and national sovereignty continue to resonate deeply within Cuban culture and politics. The memorial stands as a monumental tribute to his enduring influence and sacrifice for the nation's freedom. Reddit

The memorial itself is a masterpiece of architecture, designed to reflect Martí's significance. The star-shaped tower, the tallest structure in Havana, symbolizes his guiding light for the nation. The statue at its base, surrounded by six columns representing Martí's core principles, is a powerful focal point. Exploring the museum offers a chance to delve into his life, his writings, and the historical context of Cuba's struggle for independence, providing a richer understanding of the monument's purpose. Reddit

Experiencing Plaza de la Revolución

The José Martí Memorial is the undisputed centerpiece of the vast Plaza de la Revolución (Revolution Square), one of the largest city squares in the world. This iconic location has been the stage for numerous significant political rallies, speeches by Cuban leaders, and national celebrations. Its immense scale is a testament to its historical importance and its role in Cuban public life. Reddit

Beyond the memorial, the square is flanked by important government buildings and the imposing Ministry of the Interior, recognizable by the large metal portrait of Che Guevara. While the memorial offers historical and panoramic insights, the square itself provides a sense of the grandeur and historical weight of Cuban political events. Visiting the memorial offers a perfect opportunity to also absorb the atmosphere and historical significance of this expansive public space. Reddit

Views from the Observatory Tower

For many visitors, the highlight of the José Martí Memorial is the ascent to the observatory tower. From this vantage point, 142 meters above Havana, you are treated to an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of the sprawling city. It's a unique perspective that allows you to grasp the sheer size and layout of Havana, from the historic Old Town to the modern districts. Reddit

On a clear day, you can see for miles, spotting landmarks and getting a true sense of the urban landscape. The experience is often described as breathtaking and provides fantastic photo opportunities. It’s a chance to see Havana from a different angle, appreciating its vibrant colors, diverse architecture, and its proximity to the Caribbean Sea. Reddit

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