Guantanamo.- The “Maceísta” Radio Stations Symposium is currently underway in Guantánamo, aiming to explore the nation’s history, particularly the legacy of the Maceo-Grajales family. As part of their journey to Baracoa, participants visited the “11 de Abril” Museum at Playita de Cajobabo in Imías, the historic landing site of José Martí, Máximo Gómez, and other patriots in 1895, marking the beginning of the “Necessary War” (the Cuban War of Independence).
Upon reaching Cuba’s “First City” (Primera Villa), the group was received at the Matachín Museum. This historic fortress, constructed between 1739 and 1742, formed part of Baracoa’s defensive triangle alongside the La Punta and Seboruco forts.
As the only one of the three fortifications to maintain its original structure, it served as a barracks for the Spanish army during the independence struggle and later became a refuge for impoverished families, earning the moniker “Cursed Castle” (Castillo Maldito).
The Matachín Museum opened its doors on October 10, 1981, showcasing a diverse range of exhibits that delve into archaeology, the age of piracy, the French influence in the area, and the War of Independence.
Baracoa is also notable for Duaba Beach, the landing site of the “Bronze Titan,” Antonio Maceo, who joined the struggle for Cuba’s independence—a pivotal moment celebrated through various exhibitions and artistic expressions. Consequently, the group visited the obelisk located 3 km west of the “First City,” dedicated to honoring these significant historical events.
Historian Elexis Fernández Rubio provides insight into the dramatic occurrences of April 1, 1895, when Generals Antonio and José Maceo, along with Flor Crombet and twenty other expeditionaries, arrived on the Cuban coast aboard the English schooner “Honor”. This site, recognized as a National Monument in 1978, signifies the commencement of the “Necessary War” (Guerra Necesaria) in eastern Cuba.
Following this, the group engaged in a discussion at the Hotel Porto Santo, a venue established in 1986 and renovated in 2007, located by the bay where, according to legend, Christopher Columbus erected the Cruz de la Parra (Cross of the Vine) in 1492.
A highlight of the “Maceísta” Radio Stations Symposium is a competition featuring over twenty entries in both news and dramatized formats, emphasizing the importance of General Antonio Maceo Grajales and his distinguished family.
