Guantánamo recognized the work of institutions and individuals working to conserve and restore built heritage as part of the celebrations for the International Day of Monuments and Sites, commemorated every April 18th, a special occasion to recognize the beauty, architectural value, and history they represent.
On this occasion, the Punta de Maisi Lighthouse won the Provincial Award in the Conservation category, as a work in perfect condition that constitutes a heritage landmark, a dynamic resource that identifies the coastal landscape of Cuba’s easternmost municipality and the oldest building in the area. It guided boats for the first time on November 19, 1862.
Likewise, the Provincial Award in the Restoration category was awarded to the 11 de Abril Playita de Cajobabo National Monument, a work considered a Sacred Corner of the Homeland, for being erected on the site where José Martí, Máximo Gómez, and other patriots landed on April 11 1895, in the municipality of Imias.
During the event, Francisco Ramírez Sarmiento, director of the Provincial Heritage Center, spoke about the significance of celebrating the International Day for Monuments and Sites 2025, by the International Union of Architects (UIA) joins its partner ICOMOS and the global community, whose establishment was approved by the 22nd UNESCO General Conference in 1983, in the need to protect cultural heritage and to promotes conservation and restoration efforts.
The jury also recognized conservator Armando Rodríguez Martínez, a graduate of the Professional Academy of Fine Arts, who was responsible for the restoration of the 11 de Abril Monument.
The Argeo Martínez Agroindustrial Company was also recognized for its successful efforts to preserve industrial heritage and showcase historical sugar heritage, achieving satisfactory results nationwide—efforts that transcend time.
During the provincial celebration of the International Day of Monuments and Sites, essentialists Rafael Ángel Ferret Caldentey, Odalis Tablada Blanco de Anaya, and Gaspar Atares were also honored. They are distinguished for their work over more than 30 years in the restoration and conservation of Guantanamo’s heritage sites.
