General Cemetery Santiago
A vast, historic necropolis showcasing Chile's rich past through grand mausoleums and significant memorials.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, safer exploration
General Cemetery Santiago
Best Time
Fewer crowds, safer exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, historic necropolis showcasing Chile's rich past through grand mausoleums and significant memorials.
"A must-see for history lovers, this cemetery is a beautiful yet unusual tapestry of Chilean life and death."
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a historical tour to uncover hidden stories and key figures.
🗺️ Grab a Map Inside
Navigate the vast grounds with a map to find specific tombs and points of interest.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mausoleums of the Elite
Various sections
Marvel at the ornate sculptures and grand architecture of mausoleums belonging to Chile's presidents and prominent figures.

Salvador Allende's Grave
Patio 29
A significant historical site, this tomb is a poignant reminder of Chile's political past.

Memorial to the Disappeared
Patio 29
A solemn space commemorating victims of political executions and disappearances.

The Italian Pantheon
Italian Society Pantheon
An impressive and gigantic structure showcasing the grandeur of the Italian community's resting place.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Grandeur
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a historical tour to uncover hidden stories and key figures.
🗺️ Grab a Map Inside
Navigate the vast grounds with a map to find specific tombs and points of interest.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of restrictions inside mausoleums.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking across this enormous necropolis.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a historical tour to uncover hidden stories and key figures.
🗺️ Grab a Map Inside
Navigate the vast grounds with a map to find specific tombs and points of interest.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of restrictions inside mausoleums.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking across this enormous necropolis.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, bring water as you explore the expansive grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the General Cemetery of Santiago for its incredible architecture, historical significance, and the sheer scale of its mausoleums. It's described as a 'taphophile's paradise' and a 'museum al aire libre.' While generally safe and free to enter, some note that signage could be improved, and the damage from past earthquakes is a concern for the preservation of some structures.
"Well worth a visit, if not only to see Allende’s grave and the memorial to the desaparecidos and political executions, but to see the gorgeous, huge mausoleums dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Free to enter. Could be better signposting to said tombs/monuments but a kindly cemetery employee helped me. Also police on site as are very accommodating."
Jennifer Smith
"Well worth a visit with incredibly interesting architecture & history, not to mention reminders of one's own mortality. Famous, infamous and forgotten figures share this enormous space. Easy to reach by metro, then meander through. Not to be missed are Salvador Allende's tomb or the wall commemorating those killed or "disappeared" during his successors' administration. Patio 29 was the previously secret mass grave used for unmarked burials during Pinochet's government."
caitlin spaan
"If you love history, this is a must see... beautiful yet unusual mausoleums, sarcophaguses, memorials to most every president of Chile, as well as the common folk... clean, safe, and beautiful. It is a little sad that the damage from past earthquakes has caused some damage and unless something is done, some of the more elaborate mausoleums may collapse in the near future. Although I did see it myself, I recommend you learn the story and find the gravesite of Victor Jara."
John Bankson - Express English
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The General Cemetery of Santiago is easily accessible by metro. Take Line 2 to the Cementerios station, which is conveniently located near the main entrance.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.During the day, the cemetery is generally considered safe, with police presence often noted.
However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and avoid visiting late at night.For a comprehensive understanding of the history and to easily locate significant tombs, a guided tour is highly recommended.
Alternatively, you can explore independently using a map available inside.While specific parking details can vary, it's generally advisable to rely on public transport or ride-sharing services due to the cemetery's size and potential for limited parking.
Yes, you can visit the cemetery independently. It's free to enter, and many visitors enjoy wandering through the grounds at their own pace.
Just be sure to grab a map to help you navigate.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the General Cemetery of Santiago is free to enter, making it an accessible historical site for all visitors.
The cemetery is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can sometimes vary.
Since entry is free, no advance booking is required. You can simply arrive during opening hours.
Guided tours are available and highly recommended for a richer experience. While some tours may have a fee, they offer invaluable historical context.
Photography is generally permitted within the cemetery grounds. However, be respectful and check for any specific restrictions, especially inside mausoleums.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the grand mausoleums of historical figures, the tomb of Salvador Allende, and the memorial to the disappeared at Patio 29. The Italian Pantheon is also a striking sight.
Given its vast size, allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the main highlights. If you plan to delve deeper or take a guided tour, you might need more time.
Basic facilities are usually available within the cemetery grounds. It's advisable to use them when you see them, as they might not be uniformly distributed.
Expect a stunning array of architectural styles, from neoclassical mausoleums to more modern sculptures, reflecting different eras and artistic movements.
While main avenues are generally accessible, some paths and older sections might be uneven or have stairs. It's best to stick to the main pathways if mobility is a concern.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate mausoleums, intricate sculptures, and grand avenues offer endless photographic opportunities. The Italian Pantheon and the memorial areas are also visually striking.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's respectful to avoid intrusive shots inside private mausoleums or of grieving visitors. Some specific areas might have signage indicating restrictions.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful, soft light that enhances the atmosphere and details of the architecture.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in cemeteries and public historical sites to ensure safety and respect. It's best to assume this is not allowed.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the mausoleums and avenues, while a prime lens can be useful for detailed shots of sculptures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more manageable, opt for a guided tour that can keep younger attention spans engaged with storytelling. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking. Bringing water and snacks is also a good idea, as facilities might be spread out. It's a unique opportunity to introduce children to a different facet of history and culture in a safe, daytime environment.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Delve into the lives of Chile's presidents, influential politicians, and cultural icons buried here. The cemetery serves as a tangible timeline of the nation's development, social structures, and artistic trends. Don't miss the chance to explore the stories behind figures like Salvador Allende and the poignant memorials that speak to Chile's complex past. A guided tour will significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the historical narratives embedded within this vast necropolis.
📸 Photographers
Focus on capturing the architectural details, the textures of the stone, and the interplay of nature with the man-made structures. While general photography is permitted, always be mindful of respecting the sanctity of the place and any specific restrictions within private tombs. Consider using a wide-angle lens for sweeping shots of the avenues and a prime lens for detailed close-ups of sculptures and inscriptions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Necropolis of History and Art
Visitors can wander through avenues lined with impressive sculptures and elaborate crypts, each telling a story of the individuals and families interred within. The cemetery is a visual representation of class and status in Santiago, with the most elaborate tombs belonging to prominent political figures, wealthy industrialists, and influential families. It's a place where the famous, the infamous, and the forgotten rest side-by-side, offering a unique glimpse into Chilean society across centuries.
Beyond the individual tombs, the cemetery holds significant historical weight. It serves as a memorial to key figures like Salvador Allende and houses the poignant Patio 29, a mass grave site used during the Pinochet regime, commemorating those who were disappeared or executed. The architectural diversity, from neoclassical designs to Art Nouveau influences, makes it a fascinating study for art and history enthusiasts alike.
Navigating the Grounds and Key Figures
Among the most sought-after tombs are those of Chile's presidents, including figures like Salvador Allende, whose resting place is a significant historical marker. The memorial to the disappeared at Patio 29 is another essential stop, offering a somber reflection on a difficult period in Chilean history. Other notable figures whose final resting places can be found include poets, artists, and military leaders, each contributing to the tapestry of Chilean heritage.
When planning your visit, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be covering a lot of ground. The cemetery is generally safe during the day, with police presence providing an added layer of security. However, it's always wise to remain aware of your surroundings and avoid venturing into isolated areas, especially as dusk approaches.
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