The natural charms of an island with a privileged geographical location and more than five centuries of traditions, are combined with the history of the Cuban nation, where many monuments and museums reserve a place of honor for Cuba's National Hero José Martí.

One of these important museums is the José Martí Memorial in Havana, just across the so-called Revolution Square, a huge open area that has witnessed the largest mass demonstrations staged by the Cuban people in the past 40 years.

A huge statue of the Apostle is a silent witness of the events that have taken place in this historic square, where millions of Cubans have gathered since 1959 to commemorate different events, very often in the presence of foreign visitors.

It is precisely at the base of the statue where the José Martí Memorial is located, treasuring many objects linked to the life and work of this great man, who is considered the Apostle of the Cuban nation.

Tours of the Memorial and the surrounding areas are a highly demanded excursion in tourist programs on culture and history offered by many travel agencies operating in the city.

Experts welcome visitors at the Memorial to guide them in a tour where they can learn not only about José Martí's personality, but also aspects related to the construction of the monument, the square and the nearby buildings.

At the base of the monument, which resembles a five-point star, four exhibition rooms and a 100-seat hall for events await the arrival of visitors, with a program that also includes lectures, book presentations and small-format concerts.

Two of the halls display aspects of the character of the Cuban National Hero, who was closely linked to the island's war for independence. The halls exhibit engravings, drawings, iconography, editions of his books and objects that played a significant role in the Apostle's life.

Among the relics being exhibited are José Martí's certificates as a bachelor in Philosophy and Humanities and Law, issued by the University of Zaragoza, in Spain, and a stuffed quetzal that Guatemalan President Justo Rufino Barrios gave the Cuban hero as a present in 1877.

Of particular interest for visitors is a mural of Venetian ceramic - created by Cuban plastic artist Enrique Carabia - which shows 89 phrases by José Martí in 10-karat gold-plated letters.

At the end of the tour, visitors ascend to the Monument's Lookout, which is 139 meters above sea level and is considered by specialists the highest point in the city.

It is precisely from there where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the centennial city, with its blend of architectural styles, cultures, traditions and races, all of this as part of a unique offer that will remain forever in the minds of thousands of tourists who decide to spend their vacations in the largest Antillean island.