This foreboding panopticon-style prison on the Isle of Youth is a haunting reminder of Cuba's tumultuous past. Built in 1926, the Presidio Modelo was designed to showcase the latest in penal reform, but it soon became notorious for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates.
History
The prison was built during the dictatorship of Gerardo Machado, with the intention of creating a model institution that would reform prisoners through hard labor and isolation. However, the reality was far from this ideal. The prison became a symbol of oppression, with thousands of political prisoners, including Fidel Castro, held within its walls.
Architecture
The prison's design was influenced by the work of Jeremy Bentham, who advocated for the panopticon style as a means of efficient surveillance. The Presidio Modelo's circular design, with cells arranged around a central watchtower, allowed guards to monitor prisoners at all times. This design was meant to create a sense of constant surveillance, breaking the spirits of the inmates.
Today
Abandoned since 1967, the Presidio Modelo stands as a haunting testament to Cuba's complex history. Visitors can explore the crumbling cells, hospital, and administrative buildings, gaining a glimpse into the harsh realities of life within these walls.
Practicalities
- Getting There: Take a taxi or bus from Nueva Gerona, the capital of the Isle of Youth.
- Opening Hours: 9am-5pm
- Admission: 5 CUC (Cuban Convertible Pesos)
- Guided Tours: Available in Spanish, English, and French
A visit to the Presidio Modelo is a sobering reminder of the island's turbulent past. As you wander through the abandoned corridors, you can't help but feel the weight of history bearing down upon you.
Photos: (c) Roderick Eime 2017
