The Latin cross that once adorned the bell tower of the Chapel of San Antonio de Padua in Cárdenas, Matanzas province, was taken down on Sunday due to its risk of collapse. The structure has suffered significant damage over the past century from repeated lightning strikes.
Henry Delgado Manzor, a photographer and advocate for Cárdenas’ architectural heritage, shared the news on Facebook in a post titled "Under the Fire from the Sky: The Cross That Had to Be Removed," accompanied by photographs by Rolando Trujillo.
Delgado Manzor highlighted that over the last hundred years, the 26-meter-tall bell tower of the Chapel of San Antonio de Padua has been struck by lightning multiple times.
Recent Lightning Damage
The latest strike occurred on the night of March 13 during a severe local storm, which brought strong winds, hail, and numerous lightning strikes. This event caused significant damage to the Latin cross situated atop the octagonal-based, pyramidal spire.
This was not the first incident to leave a visible mark: in June 2025, dislodged fragments from the structure had already damaged the temple's roof, highlighting the progressive deterioration and urgency for action.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The chapel, dedicated to San Antonio de Padua and inaugurated on June 13, 1925, celebrates its centennial this year. Its Gothic-style tower is a prominent architectural feature of Cárdenas, a city noted for its heritage value. In March 2022, Cuba's National Council of Cultural Heritage declared the historic center a National Monument, encompassing 67 blocks with 19th-century eclectic and neoclassical architecture.
The deterioration of Cuba's religious heritage is a systemic issue exacerbated by decades of neglect and lack of resources for restoration, affecting churches and temples across the island.
Lack of Modern Lightning Protection
The historical absence of modern lightning rods on elevated structures such as church towers makes them frequent targets for lightning, especially in a country experiencing high atmospheric electrical activity during summer months.
Delgado Manzor urged the community to rally together to prevent further loss: "It's time to unite efforts to restore a new cross that will enhance the slender Gothic tower, a symbol of the community's faith, and ensure it is protected by a modern lightning protection system."
Understanding the Challenges of Preserving Cuban Heritage
What led to the removal of the cross from the Cárdenas tower?
The cross was removed due to structural damage from numerous lightning strikes over the past century, posing a risk of collapse.
Why is Cárdenas’ historic center significant?
Cárdenas' historic center is significant due to its architectural heritage, featuring 19th-century eclectic and neoclassical styles, recognized as a National Monument.
What challenges do Cuban religious sites face?
These sites face challenges from structural deterioration due to lack of maintenance and resources for restoration, compounded by frequent lightning strikes.