A gift from the Republic of Cuba to Madrid, the monument is dedicated to José Martí, a Cuban writer and activist noted for his struggle in favour of the independence from Spain.

Gifted by the Republic of Cuba to Madrid,[1] the monument was authored by José Villa (sculptor) and Rómulo Fernández (architect).

[2] Standing 7.90 metre high, the monument consists of a cuboid with a (1.80 x 1.80) m base, bifurcating in two bodies upon its upper part.

[3] The right and left flanks feature two inscriptions respectively reading "madrid a josé martí (1853-1895) héroe nacional de cuba" ("Madrid to José Martí (1853–1895) National Hero of Cuba") and "y pongamos alrededor de la estrella en la bandera nueva esta fórmula del amor triunfante con todos y para el bien de todos" (let's put around the star in the new flag this formula of triumphant love with all and for the good of all").

[3] It was unveiled in October 1986 during a ceremony attended by Juan Barranco (Mayor of Madrid) and Armando Hart (Cuban Minister of Culture).