Just around the corner from our stroll, we came across the Memorial of Granma, a striking exhibit that captured a pivotal moment in Cuban history.
The Granma is a historic yacht famously used to transport 82 fighters of the Cuban Revolution from Mexico to Cuba in November 1956, with the mission of overthrowing the regime of Fulgencio Batista. Built in 1943 by Wheeler Shipbuilding in Brooklyn, New York, the 60-foot (18-meter) diesel-powered vessel originally served as a light-armored target practice boat for the U.S. Navy. After the war, it was modified to accommodate up to 12 people. Interestingly, the yacht’s name, “Granma,” is an affectionate term for a grandmother in English, reportedly named after the previous owner’s grandmother.
Surrounding the Granma were remnants of Cuba’s revolutionary past, including trucks, oil tanks, an airplane, missiles, and an armored tank. One particularly haunting artifact was the wreckage of a downed airplane. Our guide’s detailed explanations brought these pieces to life, connecting them to the broader narrative of Cuba’s struggle and resilience.
The memorial offered a fascinating glimpse into Cuba’s revolutionary spirit, making it a memorable stop on our journey through Havana.
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