At the site, declared a National Monument in 1990 and unique in the country, restoration teams are working simultaneously in different areas, although the main efforts are focused on repairing train cars and building a wall to contain the force of a nearby river.

According to Lilian Laura Rodriguez, the museum’s director, the support of various local companies, such as Cuban Railways, the Institute of Hydraulic Resources, and the Provincial Directorate of Culture, is contributing to the comprehensive approach to the main problems identified.

Designed by the renowned Cuban architect Jose Delarra, the site commemorates the derailment and capture of the armored train by Che Guevara’s troops in December 1958 during the Battle of Santa Clara, a pivotal action in securing the triumph of the Cuban Revolution.

The military convoy, loaded with soldiers and weapons, was intended to reinforce the troops of dictator Batista, who at that time were fighting their last battles against the Rebel Army led by Fidel Castro in eastern Cuba, but Che’s troops in Santa Clara thwarted this plan.

According to the current restoration plan, the first two cars of that train should be ready by December 29, the 67th anniversary of the event, while work progresses in other areas.

The museum remains open to the public amidst the ongoing work to restore the planters, paving stones, and other elements of the sculptural ensemble, such as columns and pedestals, to their original state.

jdt/jcm/ysd