Yasel Porto, a Cuban sports journalist, recently traveled to Cuba with the intention of visiting his grandmother's grave at Havana's Colón Cemetery. What he found there left him in disbelief due to the severe neglect and decay at the island's most renowned burial ground.
Upon his arrival, Porto was shocked to discover that the mausoleum where his grandmother was laid to rest was in a terrible state. The door was left ajar and the interior showed clear signs of vandalism, as he shared in a post on his Facebook page, DPorto Sports LLC.
Currently residing in the United States, Porto expressed his frustration at being unable to confirm whether his grandmother's remains were still there, citing a lack of security and necessary permits to access the site.
During his visit, he also witnessed widespread neglect in other parts of the cemetery, such as the section dedicated to professional baseball players. Notably, plaques and bronze ornaments honoring figures like Andrés Ayón Brown, a Cuban baseball icon, were missing.
Porto's account highlighted even more severe issues, including open graves, exposed bones littering the streets, and a pervasive stench throughout the area.
These kinds of complaints are becoming increasingly common, yet the Cuban regime consistently blames the situation on a lack of resources, the exodus of skilled workers due to low wages, and systemic indifference.
Understanding the Crisis in Cuban Cemeteries
What did Yasel Porto find at his grandmother's grave?
Yasel Porto discovered that his grandmother's mausoleum was in disrepair, with an open door and signs of vandalism.
Why are Cuban cemeteries in such poor condition?
The Cuban government attributes the neglect to a lack of resources, the departure of skilled workers due to low wages, and institutional neglect.
Are there other areas in the cemetery facing neglect?
Yes, Porto noted neglect in other sections, including the area for professional baseball players, where memorabilia was missing.