NOTE: This article was originally published February 4, 2019. We share it to mark the cemetery’s 201st anniversary.
The Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires, Argentina exhibits beautiful sculptures and mausoleums carved in honor of the people who rest there. Most of its facilities are made of expensive materials such as marble, which demonstrate the need for families to display their wealth even in the afterlife.
Some of the exuberant structures of the cemetery were designed by renowned architects. Ninety of its vaults have already been declared National Historic Monuments. Many of them are literally works of art.
Both locals and tour guides tell interesting stories about the residents of this cemetery. Your visits here will likely include memorable anecdotes that go from paranormal encounters to sad stories of frustrated loves and disappointments.
Location of the Recoleta Cemetery
The Recoleta Cemetery of is located in the Recoleta neighborhood of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. It is near the center of the city, or
“Microcentro” as the porteños call the area.
Recoleta Cemetery is one of the city’s must-see promenades. Do not skip it on your visit to Buenos Aires.
Fun Facts
Recoleta Cemetery opened on novemmber 17, 1822 under the name “North Cemetery.”
This cemetery houses the tomb of Eva María Duarte, better known as Eva Perón or Evita, who was buried in her family vault. It is a fairly modest structure, but it has fresh flowers all year round, left there by those who visit her each day.
Another of the emblematic tombs is that of Liliana Crociati. The parents of the deceased built her mausoleum to resemble her bedroom. Crociati, who died on her honeymoon, was immortalized here in a majestic sculpture that shows her in her wedding dress with her faithful canine companion beside her.
And Now, Some Tips
Guided Tours
The guided visit takes about 45 minutes to an hour, but if you want to explore the entire cemetery it takes much longer.
We recommend wearing comfortable shoes on your visit. There are few places to sit and you will be standing for a long time.
Hydration
Bring cool drinks when visiting in hot weather and / or during the Argentine summer (December, January, February). There are no snacks or soft drinks for sale inside the cemetery. Water fountains are available for you to fill your water bottles. Remember that the whole place is outdoors.
Accessibility
The corridors are wide and comfortable enough to move in wheelchairs or baby carts. You are also allowed you to take pictures freely.
Schedule
The entrance to the cemetery is free and the guided tours are as well. They are available only in Spanish, from Tuesday to Friday at 11:00 AM and at 2:00 PM. They are also available on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays at 11:00 in the morning and at 3:00 in the afternoon.
Where to Find It
Junín 1760 (C1113), Recoleta, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
