Che Guevara Mausoleum was built in 1987 as a memorial to Santa Clara’s famous hero 20 years after the warrior died in Bolivia and 10 years before his remains were found and returned to Cuba. Visit the site’s mausoleum and museum to learn more about the real life of the man whose face has become an iconic image on many thousands of T-shirts around the world.
Dr. Ernesto Guevara, known by many simply as Che, was born in Argentina and developed compassion for the plight of the poor throughout South America. Visit the Toma del Tren Blindado Monument on the east side of the city to learn about Guevera’s pivotal victory in the Battle of Santa Clara that assured the success of the Cuban Revolution against the Batista regime. At this museum on the west side of the city, learn about the progression of Che’s life through simple items and photographs of Che at leisure.
Che traveled to Bolivia in 1966 to attempt to help locals rebelling against the government using guerrilla warfare. The mission failed and he was killed there in 1967 and left in an unmarked mass grave for years. Enter the small mausoleum, which now holds the remains of Che and some of the revolutionaries who died at his side. Note the eternal flame lit by Fidel Castro in 1997.
Outside, gaze upward at the 22-foot-tall (7-meter) bronze statue of Che, wearing army fatigues and his trademark beret. The supporting pedestal is engraved with a motivational quote from Che: “Hasta la Victoria Siempre,” which translates to “Ever Onward to Victory.” Other stone works along the large parade grounds are engraved with images of Che and followers, as well as more information about Che’s philosophy and actions.
The Che Guevara Mausoleum, open daily except Monday, has no admission. You will be asked to leave your possessions at the entrance, including your camera, as taking pictures inside is not allowed. Walk here in about 20 minutes from Leoncio Vidal Park or ride in a quaint horse-drawn cart or one of the nicely preserved American cars from the 1950s.
