Ybor Square

9th Avenue and Avenue Republica de Cuba (14th St.) (map)

Ybor Square, built in 1886, is Ybor City's most famous building. In 1893, Cuban Revolutionary leader Jose Marti stood often on the stairway entrance on the building's east side, speaking eloquently for Cuban independence.

Constructed as a cigar factory by Ybor City's founder and namesake, Vicente Martinez Ybor, the structure covers a full block between 8th and 9th Avenues and 13th and 14th Streets. Hav-a-Tampa was the last cigar company to occupy the building for its intended use. The facility is now owned by development company ZOM.

As early as 1871, Tampa became a refuge for thousands Cubans fleeing Spanish rule in their homeland. They first settled in Key West, but as Ybor and others moved their cigar factories to Tampa, the Cuban refugees moved also.

Marti's empassioned writings and oratory against Spanish domination of Cuba were carried out primarily in the United States. Marti, known as the "George Washington" of Cuba, lived in New York City, Key West, and Ybor City.

Marti first arrived in Tampa on Nov. 24, 1891. He spent the night at famed El Pasaje Hotel, then known as the Cherokee Club. Before retiring he proclaimed: "I feel happy amongst warriors." He collected funds for the fight.

Altogether, some 27 military expeditions financed and largely manned by Ybor City Cubans left Tampa to fight in in the homeland. On a visit in 1893, after an attempt to poison Marti failed, he found refuge at La Casa de Pedroso.

9th Avenue and Avenue Republica de Cuba (#4 on map)
Enter from courtyard entrance on 9th Avenue