Jose Marti Monument, Havana

The José Martí Monument in Havana honors one of the nation's most revered figures, José Julián Martí Pérez. Known as the "Apostle of Cuban Independence," Martí's multifaceted life and enduring legacy are deeply interwoven with the fabric of Cuban national identity and history. As a poet, essayist, journalist, revolutionary philosopher, translator, professor, publisher, and political theorist, Martí's contributions transcend the literary realm, embedding him as a pivotal figure in the struggle for Cuba's independence from Spanish rule in the 19th century.

The 109 meters (358 feet) tower, designed by Raoul Otero de Galarraga's team, resembles a five-pointed star and is made of grey Cuban marble. It was chosen from multiple entries in competitions starting in 1939. Initially, designs included one with a Martí statue atop and another resembling the Lincoln Memorial. The fourth competition in 1943 picked a design by Aquiles Maza and Juan José Sicre.

The chosen design features a top-floor observation deck, accessible by elevator, offering panoramic views of Havana. The ground floor houses the memorial, showcasing correspondence, writings, and belongings of José Martí, as well as exhibits detailing his life. Additional rooms cover the history of the Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolucion) and exhibit contemporary art. Martí's quotes adorn the elevator area, while notable items include a replica of Simón Bolívar's sword gifted to Fidel Castro by Hugo Chávez in 2002. Outside, across from Che Guevara's mural on the Ministry of the Interior, stands an 18 meters (59 feet) white marble statue of Martí encircled by six half-height marble columns.

The José Martí Monument not only commemorates the man but also embodies the ideals for which he stood. It serves as a constant reminder of the struggle for independence and the importance of intellectual and political contributions to national identity.