How many of us have ever stopped to look at this object? It stands at the intersection of Mariana de Jesús Avenue and America Avenue. Yes this geometric thing is a monument. It commemorates José Martí.
Let’s talk about the Monumento a Jose Martí, héroe nacional de Cuba. It honors a significant figure. José Martí was born in Havana Cuba in 1853. He died in Dos Ríos Cuba in 1895. He was a Cuban writer and political figure.
Martí released a press statement. It was called The Devil cripple. In 1892 he founded the Cuban Revolutionary Party. He also founded the Nation magazine. He became a champion for Cuban independence.
The monument itself might not win any beauty contests. The metal structure is quite large. It towers over Martí’s image. The monument features a five-sided star viewed from above. One side has a red star.
The representation of Martí is simple. He wears a suit. His pose is casual. His hand rests on his belt. You can see him on two sides of the star.
Below the image of Martí are some words. They read: “It is the hour of united march. We must walk in a tight square like silver in the roots of the Andes.” These are the words of José Martí.
Interestingly the Avenida América has changed a lot over the years. The creation of the Metrovia changed things. Many things were lost along the way. The fountain on República Avenue disappeared. So did the small plaza of the seminary on Colón. The Monumento a Jose Martí was respected. It was the only thing that was not changed.
On October 24 1890 Eloy Alfaro met Martí. Alfaro was a leader of the Ecuadorian liberal revolution. They met at the house of Carmen Millares in New York. They formed a long friendship.
Today a floral offering often sits at the base. It is in the shape of the Cuban flag. This Monumento a Jose Martí stands as a reminder. It honors a man who fought for his country’s freedom. It also stands as a testament to enduring friendship.