Chacarita Cemetery Buenos Aires
A sprawling 'city of the dead' in Buenos Aires, featuring grand mausoleums, iconic tombs, and the unique brutalist architecture of the Sixth Pantheon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Chacarita Cemetery Buenos Aires
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 'city of the dead' in Buenos Aires, featuring grand mausoleums, iconic tombs, and the unique brutalist architecture of the Sixth Pantheon.
"It's like walking through an actual neighborhood of houses, immense and beautiful."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! This place is huge, like a city. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities inside. Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. :water_wave: :apple:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tomb of Gustavo Cerati
La Merced Pavilion
Pay homage to the iconic Soda Stereo frontman. Visitors leave flowers, photos, and memorabilia.
The Sixth Pantheon (Pantheon VI)
Central area
A brutalist, dystopian architectural marvel. This labyrinthine structure offers a unique, eerie urban exploration experience.
Carlos Gardel's Mausoleum
Central area
Visit the final resting place of the legendary tango singer, a significant figure in Argentine culture.
Grand Mausoleums and Art
Throughout the cemetery
Marvel at the diverse and often elaborate architecture of family tombs and monuments, showcasing impressive artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Chacarita's Vastness
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! This place is huge, like a city. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities inside. Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. :water_wave: :apple:
Respectful Conduct
This is a place of rest. Be quiet, don't disturb visitors, and avoid taking anything. :pray:
Beware of Getting Lost
It's easy to get disoriented. Consider downloading an offline map or using GPS. :compass:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! This place is huge, like a city. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities inside. Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. :water_wave: :apple:
Respectful Conduct
This is a place of rest. Be quiet, don't disturb visitors, and avoid taking anything. :pray:
Beware of Getting Lost
It's easy to get disoriented. Consider downloading an offline map or using GPS. :compass:
Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty, but be mindful and respectful of the solemnity of the place. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chacarita Cemetery is a vast and impressive site, often described as a city of the dead, with stunning mausoleums and a unique architectural style, particularly the Sixth Pantheon. While many appreciate its scale and artistic merit, visitors note significant disrepair, vandalism, and an unsettling smell in some areas, impacting the overall experience.
"The size of this cemetery is impressive, it seems like there’s no end to its labyrinths.
You can see a lot of monuments as impressive as those in Recoleta.
Be careful with the galleries, you can really get lost there. Some of them have been preserved in good condition, but others are slightly destroyed and there’s a strong smell that makes you wanna leave immediately."
Ann Ansher
"Interesting cemetery. It was free to enter and not many tourists here.
It is so big, it was like walking through an actual neighborhood of houses.
There is an area for personalities / famous people.
There is also a lot of damage from theft and unkept graves. It's sad, but don't let this put you off from visiting.
I enjoyed my day wandering around. I do recommend Chacarita."
Kitty
"The Most darkes and creepiest place that I’ve seen in my life. The vandals break into tombs and robe the graves, which is shocking. Free entry, smell of death (I mean it)"
KIKIBØI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Chacarita Cemetery easily via public transport. The Subte (subway) Line B to the 'Federico Lacroze' station is a common option, followed by a short walk or bus ride. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available and can take you directly to the entrance.
Yes, the main entrance is quite prominent. However, due to its immense size, once inside, navigating to specific sections can be challenging.
Walking is the primary way to explore. For longer distances, consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service to get dropped off at different points within the cemetery, though internal navigation can still be tricky.
Yes, some organizations offer guided tours, particularly focusing on specific areas like the Sixth Pantheon or historical figures. Check local tour operators for availability and schedules.
Public transport can get you to the cemetery, but finding specific tombs like Gustavo Cerati's might require asking for directions inside or using a map.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Chacarita Cemetery generally has free entry. This makes it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
The cemetery is typically open daily from around 7 AM to 6 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can vary.
Since entry is free, no advance booking is required. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
While the main cemetery has general hours, some internal pavilions or specific tombs might have slightly different access times. It's best to be aware of the general closing time.
Yes, the cemetery is open on weekends, but it might be slightly busier with local visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially near active ceremonies or private mausoleums.
While not explicitly stated, it's courteous to avoid photographing individuals without their consent and to be discreet when capturing images of tombs.
The Sixth Pantheon offers dramatic, architectural shots. The grand mausoleums and tree-lined avenues also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries and public spaces. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that enhances the atmosphere. Overcast days can also create a dramatic, moody effect, especially in the more imposing sections.
🎫 💀 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is a mix of solemnity, historical grandeur, and sometimes eerie quietude. It's a vast, labyrinthine space that can feel both peaceful and a bit unsettling.
Expect to see a wide array of impressive mausoleums, sculptures, and tombs, including those of famous Argentinians. You'll also encounter areas that show signs of wear and tear.
While generally safe during daylight hours, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in less frequented areas. Avoid visiting alone at dusk or night.
This refers to the strong odor that can emanate from older, poorly maintained galleries or tombs, particularly in humid conditions. It's a natural consequence of decomposition in some areas.
Basic facilities might be available, but they can be limited and not always well-maintained. It's advisable to use restrooms before entering.
🎫 📚 History & Culture
Chacarita Cemetery was established in 1871 during a yellow fever epidemic when existing cemeteries were overwhelmed. It has since become the largest cemetery in Buenos Aires, housing many notable figures.
Besides Gustavo Cerati and Carlos Gardel, it is the final resting place for many other prominent Argentinians, including politicians, artists, and athletes. +1
The Sixth Pantheon is architecturally significant for its unique brutalist design and its scale, often described as a 'city of the dead' or a dystopian underworld.
Like many old cemeteries, Chacarita has its share of local legends and spooky tales, often related to its vastness and the history of its inhabitants. +1
Necrotourism is the practice of visiting cemeteries for their historical, artistic, or cultural significance. Chacarita Cemetery is a prime example, attracting visitors interested in its art, history, and famous residents.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short and focus on specific, accessible areas. The vastness can be overwhelming for younger children, so plan your route and perhaps bring snacks and water. Ensure children understand the need for respectful behavior in such a solemn place.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the Sixth Pantheon, the variety of mausoleum designs provides endless subjects, from intricate sculptures to grand facades. The play of light and shadow throughout the day, especially during the golden hour, can create incredibly atmospheric images. Remember to be discreet and respectful while capturing your shots.
🚶 Solo Explorers & Urban Adventurers
While generally safe during the day, solo visitors should exercise caution, especially in less populated areas. Stick to main paths, be aware of your surroundings, and consider visiting during busier weekday hours for a greater sense of security. The cemetery's free entry makes it an accessible adventure for budget-conscious travelers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvels of Chacarita
The Sixth Pantheon, in particular, stands out with its brutalist and dystopian aesthetic. Designed by architect Itala Fulvia Villa, it's a vast, subterranean complex of corridors and burial niches that has been described as a 'futuristic underworld' or a 'city of death.' Its unique design and scale make it a focal point for urban explorers and architecture enthusiasts.
Unfortunately, many of these magnificent structures are showing signs of age and neglect. Vandalism and theft have taken a toll, leading to damaged facades, broken windows, and exposed interiors. Despite this, the sheer scale and artistic ambition of the cemetery's architecture remain incredibly impressive and a significant draw for visitors.
Visiting the Resting Places of Icons
+1Another iconic figure interred here is Carlos Gardel, the unparalleled king of tango. His mausoleum is a significant landmark within the cemetery, attracting admirers of his music and his indelible impact on Argentine culture. Visiting his tomb is a poignant experience for many.
Beyond these two giants, Chacarita is home to numerous other notable personalities from the worlds of politics, arts, and sports. Exploring these graves offers a unique way to connect with Argentine history and the individuals who shaped it.
Navigating the Labyrinth: Tips for Exploration
To make the most of your visit and avoid excessive wandering, consider downloading an offline map of the cemetery or using your phone's GPS. While not always perfectly accurate within the dense structures, it can provide a general sense of direction. Some visitors opt for guided tours that focus on specific areas or historical figures, which can provide structure and context.
+1Be prepared for varying conditions within the cemetery. While some galleries are well-maintained, others show significant disrepair, which can affect the atmosphere and even pose minor safety concerns. Always be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-trodden paths, especially if you're exploring alone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit