Cementerio Santa Ifigenia

Description:

• Northwest of the city center, this sprawling cemetery, dating to 1868, is a small city of the dead, populated by elaborate marble tombs and sarcophagi, including several spectacular mausoleums (many of which are pre-1868, having been moved here from other cemeteries). By far the most famous is that of José Martí, a massive stone and marble circular structure built in 1951 (Martí died in 1895). Don't miss the solemn changing of the guard ceremony. The Lincolnesque mausoleum is near the entrance to the cemetery, at the end of a private path. Martí once wrote that he wished to die, "without a homeland, but without a master" and to be buried with "a bouquet of flowers and a flag." In addition to Martí, the remains of Emilio Bacardí, Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, Pedro (Perucho) Figueredo (author of the Cuban national anthem), and heroes of the Moncada 26th of July rebel attack are interred here. The newest addition to the celebrated figures buried here is the great musician and native son, Compay Segundo. In addition, the cemetery's palm-lined paths abound with a wealth of other fascinating tombs for families both famous and unknown.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010