Moncada Barracks
Santiago de Cuba
The Moncada Barracks, located in Santiago de Cuba, were named after General Guillermo Moncada, a hero of the Cuban War of Independence. These barracks gained historical prominence as the site of a pivotal armed attack on July 26, 1953, led by Fidel Castro and a group of 136 revolutionaries. The attack aimed to seize the barracks, capture weapons, and use the army's communication equipment to spread misinformation, ultimately seeking to overthrow the Batista dictatorship. Although the assault failed and many revolutionaries were imprisoned, it marked the beginning of the Cuban Revolution. The date of the attack became the namesake of Castro's revolutionary movement, Movimiento 26 Julio (M-26-7). The barracks symbolize the courage and sacrifice of young revolutionaries, many in their twenties, including notable figures such as HaydĂ©e SantamarĂa and Melba Hernández. Today, the Moncada Barracks serve as a museum commemorating this historic event and its significance in Cuba's path to independence and social change.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and to check opening hours in advance. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is recommended to ensure entry. Guided tours are often available and provide valuable historical context. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer a more reflective experience with fewer visitors.
Interesting facts
- •The attack on the Moncada Barracks involved 136 revolutionaries led by Fidel Castro, with an average age of 26.
- •Only two women, HaydĂ©e SantamarĂa and Melba Hernández, participated in the attack and later became prominent politicians.
- •The attack was coordinated with a simultaneous assault on the Carlos M. de Cespedes Barracks in Bayamo.
- •Fidel Castro's group disguised themselves using army uniforms stolen from a military hospital laundry.
- •The date of the attack, July 26, was chosen because of local festivities on July 25, aiming to use the distraction to their advantage.
History
The Moncada Barracks were named after General Guillermo Moncada, a Cuban War of Independence hero.
On July 26, 1953, Fidel Castro led an armed attack on the barracks, which was the second largest military garrison in Cuba at the time.
Although the attack failed, it is widely recognized as the start of the Cuban Revolution.
The revolutionary movement founded on this date, Movimiento 26 Julio, eventually overthrew the Batista regime in 1959.
Over the decades, the barracks have been preserved as a museum honoring the revolutionaries' struggle and Cuba's fight for sovereignty.
Place Guide
Main Barracks Building19th century
The central structure of the Moncada Barracks, where the 1953 attack was focused. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the assault, including weapons used and personal stories of the revolutionaries.
Revolutionary Museum Exhibits
Permanent museum displays featuring artifacts from the attack, photographs, and documents related to the Cuban Revolution and Movimiento 26 Julio.
Contact
Phone: (022) 620157
