Conjunto Escultórico Memorial Comandante Ernesto Che Guevara · 산타클라라
Location
Overview
The Conjunto Escultórico Memorial Comandante Ernesto Che Guevara in Santa Clara is a national memorial, museum and mausoleum holding the remains of the revolutionary Che Guevara together with those of some 29 comrades who died with him in Bolivia in 1967. A 6.7-metre bronze statue by sculptor José Delarra dominates the Plaza de la Revolución; the complex was inaugurated in 1988 for the 30th anniversary of the Battle of Santa Clara, and Che's remains were interred here in 1997. In 2026 it remains one of Cuba's most-visited pilgrimage sites, so it is best approached not as a photo stop but as a solemn functioning tomb.
The 6.7 m bronze statue of Che carrying his rifle, poised as if 'marching onward', above the vast Plaza de la Revolución
The mausoleum interior with wall niches holding the remains of Che and his comrades, and the eternal flame lit by Fidel Castro
The museum's personal effects: Che's asthma inhaler, childhood books, photographs, letters and documents tracing his life
The historical story of the 1958 Battle of Santa Clara (the armoured-train assault) that precipitated the fall of Batista
The socialist-realist architecture, reliefs and inscribed memorial wall of the whole ensemble
Good to know
RulesPhotography is strictly forbidden inside the mausoleum and museum. Cameras, phones and bags must be left at the cloakroom by the entrance; only the outdoor statue and plaza may be photographed.
MannersThis is an actual tomb and memorial. Remove hats, keep silence, dress respectfully (avoid shorts, swimwear or bare shoulders) and behave soberly inside.
SafetyA trip to Cuba can disqualify you from the US ESTA visa-waiver program (Cuba is on a US-designated list). If you plan to enter or transit the US, check visa rules before travelling.
CautionCuba runs largely on cash and most foreign (especially US-issued) cards do not work. Carry enough euros/USD in cash, and always agree the fare with horse-cart or taxi drivers before you set off.
SeasonThe plaza is a large concrete space with almost no shade, and summer (Jun–Sep) is hot and humid. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and allow for schedule changes during the Jun–Nov hurricane season.
SafetySanta Clara is generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowds around the plaza and bus terminal; larger bags will in any case be checked at the entrance.
Practical info
The complex sits on Avenida de los Desfiles about 2 km west of the central Parque Vidal — roughly a 30-minute walk, or a short ride by horse-cart (coche) or taxi, with the Viazul bus terminal nearby; from Havana it is about 4–5 hours by Viazul bus. It is generally open Tuesday–Sunday from morning until around 5 pm (closed Mondays) with free admission, but hours and fees can change, so confirm the latest details through official channels before visiting.
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