A video shared on Facebook by young Rockie Perrie Guau captures the current state of the Cárdenas Zoo in Matanzas province, now reduced to rubble. The site, once alive with tropical animal murals and a visible Cuban flag, is being parceled out for residential development.
"Almost without noticing, a place that held memories and dreams for generations has vanished. The Cárdenas Zoo, abandoned by local authorities and stripped by construction material scavengers, is now debris. Today, its lands are divided for housing," wrote the creator alongside the clip, which is one minute and six seconds long.
The video has garnered over 26,000 views, 823 reactions, and 333 comments, reflecting its significant impact on Cubans who see the zoo as part of their collective memory.
The Decline of Cárdenas Zoo
The site's deterioration didn't happen overnight. As early as 2019, the Cárdenas Zoo was already listed among the neglected micro-zoos in Matanzas, alongside those in Jovellanos, Colón, and the provincial capital.
In July 2021, reports emerged about the starvation conditions faced by the zoo's lions, yet authorities failed to take decisive measures.
In April 2026, the Animal Welfare Organization Cuba (BAC) once again highlighted the severe neglect in various zoos across the island, urging the public to avoid visiting them amidst the widespread crisis in Cuba's zoo system.
National Pattern of Neglect
The situation is symptomatic across Cuba: the Colón Zoo, also in Matanzas, was denounced in December 2025 for "inhumane" conditions, with sick animals lacking veterinary care; Santiago de Cuba's zoo remained closed in November 2025; and Havana's Zoológico de 26 was described in August that year as having dry ponds, dirty cages, and visibly malnourished animals.
Historical Contrast and Urban Decay
The tragedy of Cárdenas is underscored by its juxtaposition with the city's historical significance. Known as the "City of the Flag" for hoisting the Cuban flag for the first time on May 19, 1850, its historic center was declared a National Monument in March 2022, recognized for its architectural and cultural value.
Despite this, the city faces rapid structural decline: in August 2025, the second floor of a central building collapsed due to systematic theft of beams and materials; on May 11, 2026, part of a warehouse crumbled from advanced decay; and in April 2026, a chapel's cross had to be removed due to collapse risk.
The dismantling of the zoo—with its materials plundered—represents the latest manifestation of an ongoing collapse, with the regime offering no solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cárdenas Zoo's Decline
What happened to the Cárdenas Zoo?
The Cárdenas Zoo fell into disrepair due to neglect by local authorities and was stripped by scavengers for building materials. It is now being divided for residential development.
Why is the Cárdenas Zoo important to local residents?
The Cárdenas Zoo is significant to many locals as it is part of their collective memory, holding memories and dreams for generations.
What other Cuban zoos are facing similar issues?
Similar neglect has been reported in other zoos, including those in Colón, Santiago de Cuba, and Havana's Zoológico de 26, all suffering from inadequate conditions and lack of care.