Recently, Italian media sources have confirmed that the tourist who perished in a devastating traffic incident on Thursday was Patrizia Crisolini Malatesta. The accident took place on the National Highway near the Aguada de Pasajeros municipality in Cienfuegos province. Alongside the Italian national, a Cuban guide from the agency Ecotur also lost her life, though Cuban state media has yet to disclose her identity.
Patrizia Crisolini, who was leading the group of injured Italian tourists, was an ardent traveler with over twenty years of experience in coordinating tours for Avventure nel Mondo, making a lasting impact on many fellow adventurers. Just over a week ago, Avventura Nel Mondo released a video dedicated to Cuba, highlighting her deep connection to the country.
At 67 years old and hailing from Rome, Patrizia was not only passionate about travel but also about photography. Her adventurous spirit and unquenchable curiosity were evident in her blog and Instagram posts, where she documented her numerous adventures across Africa and Asia. In her blog, she described herself as a restless and inquisitive individual.
"I dabble in a bit of everything. Sometimes I think if I'd focused on one thing I might have reached perfection, but dedicating myself to just one thing bores me. I love trying new things, and once I master them, I move on to the next adventure," she wrote.
Throughout her life, Patrizia explored a variety of pursuits, from jewelry making and gardening to learning languages, including English, Spanish, and French. She also studied photography, post-production, and even took Cuban salsa classes. For her, every experience was a learning opportunity, reflecting her insatiable curiosity about the world.
In the wake of her passing, Facebook has been flooded with condolences from her numerous friends and travel companions. Through her blog, she not only shared her experiences but also conveyed a clear message: live fully and embrace curiosity as the driving force of existence. The Italian media bid her farewell with warmth and respect.
Details of the Tragic Accident
Although Italian reports state that the minibus driver died, this contradicts information from Cuban state media, which only mentioned the deaths of two women: a Cuban and an Italian. In addition to the fatalities, seven individuals sustained injuries and were promptly taken to Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima General University Hospital.
A doctor interviewed by the Perlavisión TV channel recently indicated that among the injured, two are in critical or very serious condition (red code), two are serious (yellow code), and three have minor injuries (green code).
Preliminary reports suggest that the 16-seat Transtur minibus, originating from the Santa Fe base in Havana, collided with the highway divider at kilometer 209 near Aguada de Pasajeros, for reasons currently under investigation. Images circulating on social media have showcased the accident's severity. The vehicle was carrying eight tourists at the time of the crash.
The latest report from official sources did not confirm the involvement of a truck in the collision, as initially suggested, though the Italian press continues to mention it. In just the first half of this newly started 2025, several severe accidents have already occurred on Cuban roads.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cienfuegos Accident
Who was Patrizia Crisolini Malatesta?
Patrizia Crisolini Malatesta was an Italian traveler and tour coordinator for Avventure nel Mondo, known for her passion for exploration and photography.
What are the details of the accident in Cienfuegos?
The accident involved a Transtur minibus colliding with a highway divider near Aguada de Pasajeros, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries. The circumstances are under investigation.
How has the community responded to Patrizia's passing?
Many of Patrizia's friends and travel companions have expressed their condolences on Facebook, celebrating her adventurous spirit and love for life.