Castillo de San Severino
An 18th-century Spanish fortress on the shore of Matanzas Bay, now the Museum of the Slave Route, a UNESCO “Routes of Enslaved Peoples” project that tells the story of African slavery and sugar.
Castillo de San Severino stands on the north shore of Matanzas Bay. Construction began in 1734. It was built to defend against pirates and British fleets and was later used as a prison. It now houses the Museum of the Slave Route, part of the UNESCO “Slave Route” project. The exhibits cover the history of the African slave trade during the era of sugar plantations in Matanzas, along with shackles and instruments of restraint. There are also statues and ritual objects from Yoruba and other African religions, known as Santería. From the walls, you can look out over the bay and the old town. Admission costs a few dollars. Note: public transport is limited, so a taxi is recommended.
Opening hours
about 09:00–17:00 (closed Mon)
Nearby sights
- Teatro Sauto
- Matanzas Historic Centre
- Museo Farmacéutico de Matanzas
- Ermita de Monserrate (Matanzas)
- Cuevas de Bellamar
- Valle del Yumurí
- Río Canímar
- Playa Coral