Museo Emilio Bacardí Moreau
Santiago de Cuba
The Emilio Bacardí Moreau Municipal Museum, established in 1899 by the renowned rum distiller Emilio Bacardí Moreau, is the oldest museum in Santiago de Cuba. Located on Calle Pío Rosada, it holds a significant place in Cuban cultural heritage. The museum's collections are diverse, featuring antiquities and art collected during Emilio Bacardí and his wife Elvira Cape's 1912 overseas journey, including Cuba's first genuine Egyptian mummy and sarcophagus. It also houses three death masks of Napoleon, a rich array of artifacts from Cuba's wars of independence, and important artworks representing the French modernist era, some deaccessioned from the Museo del Prado. This blend of historical, archaeological, and artistic items makes the museum a unique repository of Cuban and international heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours in advance and consider guided tours to fully appreciate the museum's diverse collections. The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid crowds. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Booking tickets ahead is recommended during peak tourist seasons.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds Cuba's first genuine Egyptian mummy and sarcophagus, acquired during a 1912 overseas trip by Emilio Bacardí and his wife.
- •It possesses three death masks of Napoleon, a rare and unique collection item.
- •Some artworks in the museum were deaccessioned from the prestigious Museo del Prado in Spain.
- •The museum is the oldest in Santiago de Cuba, dating back to 1899.
History
Founded in 1899 by Emilio Bacardí Moreau, the museum began as a private collection that grew into Santiago de Cuba's oldest museum.
In 1912, Bacardí and his wife Elvira Cape expanded the collection with rare antiquities and art from their overseas travels, including Cuba's first genuine Egyptian mummy.
Over the years, the museum has preserved important artifacts related to Cuba's wars of independence and has incorporated significant artworks from European modernist movements, enriching its cultural significance.
Place Guide
Egyptian Collection1912
This section showcases Cuba's first genuine mummy and sarcophagus, rare artifacts brought back by Emilio Bacardí and his wife during their 1912 travels. It offers insight into ancient Egyptian funerary customs and their preservation.
Napoleon Death Masks
The museum displays three death masks of Napoleon Bonaparte, providing a rare glimpse into artifacts related to this historic figure.
Cuban Wars of Independence Artifacts
A significant collection of artifacts from Cuba's wars of independence is exhibited, illustrating the island's struggle and heritage.
French Modernist Artworks
Featuring important works from the French modernist era, some pieces were deaccessioned from Spain's Museo del Prado, enriching the museum's artistic value.
