Mariana Grajales Cuello Monument

“There is not a heart in Cuba that does not feel indebted to this beloved old woman.” These were the words of Cuban national hero José Martí, in tribute to Mariana Grajales Cuello—honoured by this commemorative monument. Cuba will never forget this remarkable woman. Born on 26 June 1808 in Santiago de Cuba, Mariana Grajales Cuello made history through her deep commitment to the most important causes of her time. She fought for women’s rights, denouncing the patriarchy in Latin American society. She stood against slavery, fighting for the liberation of Afro-descendant communities. Above all, she committed herself to Cuba’s long fight for independence, playing a vital role in all three wars against Spanish colonial rule — the Ten Years’ War, the Little War, and the War of Independence, fought between 1868 and 1898. In the midst of war, Mariana was a beacon of courage and compassion. She organised supply missions for rebel camps, established and managed a hospital for the wounded—regardless of their allegiance—and often rushed to the battlefield to offer aid herself. She even led her husband and several of her children into the struggle for Cuba’s liberation, eventually losing many of them to the cause. A fearless, strong patriot, and a mother who paid the highest price for her devotion, Mariana Grajales Cuello became the heroine of a nation. To this day, she is remembered as the Mother of Cuba.