Museum of the Revolution
La Habana
The Museum of the Revolution is located in Old Havana, Cuba, within the former Presidential Palace that served Cuban presidents from Mario García Menocal to Fulgencio Batista. The building, inaugurated in 1920 and designed by architects Rodolfo Maruri and Paul Belau, features Neo-Classical architecture and interiors decorated by Tiffany Studios of New York City. It became the Museum of the Revolution following the Cuban Revolution of 1959. The museum's exhibits focus primarily on the revolutionary war of the 1950s and Cuba's history after 1959, while also including displays dedicated to pre-revolutionary events such as the 1895-1898 War of Independence against Spain. Notably, the building was the site of a failed 1957 attack by the Directorio Revolucionario 13 de Marzo aiming to assassinate President Fulgencio Batista. The museum also honors figures like American President Abraham Lincoln, reflecting its broader historical scope.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the museum during weekdays for a less crowded experience. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The museum offers educational tours that provide deeper insights into Cuba's revolutionary history. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Check opening hours ahead of your visit as they can vary.
Interesting facts
- •The building was originally the Presidential Palace for Cuban presidents from 1920 until 1959.
- •It was designed by Cuban architect Rodolfo Maruri and Belgian architect Paul Belau, who also designed Havana's Gran Teatro.
- •The museum building was attacked in 1957 by revolutionaries attempting to kill President Fulgencio Batista.
- •The interiors were decorated by the famous Tiffany Studios of New York City.
- •The museum includes exhibits honoring American President Abraham Lincoln, highlighting Cuba's international historical connections.
History
The building housing the Museum of the Revolution was originally the Presidential Palace, inaugurated in 1920 and serving as the residence and office for Cuban presidents until 1959.
Designed by Cuban architect Rodolfo Maruri and Belgian architect Paul Belau, it is a fine example of Neo-Classical architecture with interiors by Tiffany Studios.
In 1957, it was attacked by the Directorio Revolucionario 13 de Marzo in an attempt to overthrow President Fulgencio Batista, but the attack failed.
After the Cuban Revolution in 1959, the palace was repurposed as the Museum of the Revolution, preserving and showcasing Cuba's revolutionary history.
Place Guide
Presidential Palace Architecture1920
Explore the Neo-Classical design of the former Presidential Palace, featuring grand facades and interiors decorated by Tiffany Studios, reflecting early 20th-century Cuban elite tastes.
Revolutionary War Exhibits1950s
Dedicated to the Cuban revolutionary war of the 1950s, these exhibits present weapons, documents, and personal stories from the struggle against Batista's regime.
Pre-Revolutionary Cuba SectionLate 19th century
Displays covering the 1895-1898 War of Independence against Spain and other key moments in Cuban history before the revolution.
Abraham Lincoln Exhibit
A special exhibit honoring American President Abraham Lincoln, reflecting historical ties and ideological inspiration.
