In 1976, Cuba and the Soviet Union decided to build and co-manage a nuclear power plant in Juragua. This project was never completed and the work was abandoned in 1992 with the collapse of the Soviet Union, and the termination of Soviet economic aid to Cuba.

The original plan was to produce two 440 megawatts reactors, expected to cover 15% of Cuba’s energy needs, which was heavily dependent on imported oil. The US strongly opposed the project due to its close proximity to the Florida Keys.

Today, one can observe the huge facilities, including the dome, which can be seen from as far as Cienfuegos. Access is prohibited to foreigners.

Adapted with permission from Exploguide.com dedicated to travelers looking for alternative and off the beaten track travel.