Cemitério de Santo Amaro
Recife's oldest cemetery, a stunning open-air art gallery featuring grand mausoleums and the resting place of notable figures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Cemitério de Santo Amaro
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Recife's oldest cemetery, a stunning open-air art gallery featuring grand mausoleums and the resting place of notable figures.
"A place of peace and harmony, showcasing the true meaning of life through art and history."
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
Treat this historic site with reverence. Observe quietly and avoid disturbing others.
🔒 Be Security Conscious
Some visitors report theft. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Mausoleums
Throughout the cemetery
Marvel at hundreds of grand mausoleums, showcasing diverse architectural styles and artistic craftsmanship.

Tombs of Illustrious Figures
Various locations
Pay respects to notable figures like Chico Science, Joaquim Nabuco, and former governors.

Open-Air Art Exhibition
Entire cemetery
Experience Pernambuco's largest outdoor art exhibition, with sculptures and artistic tombs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Security Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
Treat this historic site with reverence. Observe quietly and avoid disturbing others.
🔒 Be Security Conscious
Some visitors report theft. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Wear comfortable footwear.
📸 Capture the Artistry
The mausoleums are true works of art. Bring your camera to document the unique architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
Treat this historic site with reverence. Observe quietly and avoid disturbing others.
🔒 Be Security Conscious
Some visitors report theft. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Wear comfortable footwear.
📸 Capture the Artistry
The mausoleums are true works of art. Bring your camera to document the unique architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Cemitério de Santo Amaro for its profound sense of peace, harmony, and the artistic beauty of its mausoleums, viewing it as a significant open-air art exhibition. However, some express concern over security issues, including theft of floral arrangements, and advise caution.
"Muita paz e harmonia.
O ambiente mostra o verdadeiro significado da vida."
Årthur Åquino
"O Cemitério mais antigo do Recife, existe desde 1853. Hoje situado bem próximo ao Centro da cidade. Algumas pessoas de poses na época colaboraram para a compra do terreno, entre esses Francisco Antônio de Oliveira, o Barão de Beberibe, e Herculano Alves da Silva. O visitante geralmente se depara com alguns jazigos que constituem verdadeiras obras de arte. Vários recifenses ilustres estão sepultados na ampla área desse cemitério tais como abolicionistas José Mariano e Joaquim Nabuco e os ex governadores Agamenon Magalhães, Miguel Arraes e Eduardo Campos, além do cantor e compositor Chico Science."
Rosa Elizabeth M Magalhães
"O Cemitério Senhor Bom Jesus da Redenção, mais conhecido como Cemitério de Santo Amaro, é o maior cemitério do Recife. Sua arquitetura é radial, com túmulosdistribuídos ao longo de ruas que partem de um ponto central. É a maior exposição de arte ao ar livre de Pernambuco, com centenas de mausoléus de grande porte."
Deise Maria
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cemitério de Santo Amaro is conveniently located near the city center of Recife. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or local buses that frequent the area. Public transport is a budget-friendly option, but check routes beforehand.
Yes, several bus lines pass near the cemetery. It's advisable to use a local transit app or ask for directions upon arrival to find the most convenient bus routes.
The cemetery has a radial architecture, with streets branching from a central point. While there isn't a formal map system, exploring the main avenues will give you a good overview.
Limited street parking may be available nearby, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak times. Ride-sharing or public transport is often more reliable.
While many find it peaceful, some visitors have reported security concerns. It's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours and be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Cemitério de Santo Amaro is generally free. It functions as a public space and historical site, so no admission fee is typically required.
The cemetery is usually open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's best to confirm exact hours, as they can vary.
While it's open daily, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better visibility of the artistic details.
Formal guided tours are not always advertised, but local guides may be available. You can also explore independently and appreciate the art and history at your own pace.
No, the cemetery grounds are open to the public without specific entry fees for different areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted within Cemitério de Santo Amaro. It's a popular spot for capturing the unique architecture and artistic tombs.
While generally allowed, it's important to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if you encounter any private ceremonies or grieving families.
The grand mausoleums, intricate sculptures, and the radial layout of the streets offer numerous photographic opportunities. Look for unique architectural details.
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing pathways or disturbing visitors. It's best to use handheld photography or check for specific regulations if you plan to use professional equipment.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the textures and details of the mausoleums. Morning light can also be good for softer shots.
🎫 ⚖️ History & Significance
Cemitério de Santo Amaro is one of the oldest cemeteries in Recife, established in 1853.
Notable figures include abolitionists like Joaquim Nabuco, former governors such as Agamenon Magalhães and Miguel Arraes, and the iconic musician Chico Science.
The cemetery features a unique radial architecture, with streets emanating from a central point, creating a distinctive layout.
It's often referred to as Pernambuco's largest open-air art exhibition due to the hundreds of large-scale mausoleums that are considered works of art.
The cemetery holds the final resting places of many influential figures who shaped the history of Recife and Pernambuco, including politicians and cultural icons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short to maintain children's engagement. Focus on finding visually interesting mausoleums or telling stories about the famous individuals buried there, like Chico Science, to make it more relatable. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
Consider visiting with a local guide if available, or bring a guidebook that details the cemetery's notable tombs and their artistic merits. The cemetery serves as a rich repository of Recife's past, offering insights into social history, artistic trends, and the lives of influential personalities.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
While generally safe during the day, it's wise to remain aware of your surroundings, as some reviews mention security concerns. Stick to well-trafficked areas and avoid visiting too late in the day. The cemetery offers a unique perspective on Recife's history and culture, making it a worthwhile solo excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Museum of Art and History
Visitors are often struck by the sheer scale and artistry of the mausoleums. These aren't simple headstones; they are elaborate structures, many of which are considered significant works of art. The diversity in design reflects different eras and artistic movements, offering a visual journey through time. It's a place where you can find intricate sculptures, detailed carvings, and grand monuments, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in art, architecture, and history.
Beyond its artistic merit, Cemitério de Santo Amaro is the final resting place for many of Pernambuco's most distinguished figures. From abolitionist leaders like Joaquim Nabuco to influential politicians such as Agamenon Magalhães and Miguel Arraes, and the beloved musician Chico Science, the cemetery holds the legacies of those who have significantly impacted Brazilian culture and politics. Exploring these graves offers a tangible connection to the region's rich past.
Navigating and Experiencing the Cemetery
Photography is a popular activity here, as the artistic tombs and grand architecture offer endless visual opportunities. The golden hour in the late afternoon can provide particularly beautiful light for capturing the textures and details of the monuments. However, it's crucial to maintain a respectful demeanor. Remember that this is a place of remembrance for many, so avoid intrusive photography and be mindful of any private ceremonies or grieving visitors.
While the cemetery is generally a peaceful place, some visitors have noted concerns about security, particularly regarding the theft of floral arrangements. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. Visiting during daylight hours and perhaps with a companion can enhance your sense of security. Despite these considerations, the cemetery offers a unique and profound experience, blending art, history, and a sense of quiet contemplation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit