Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
A historic 1863 cemetery overlooking the ocean, featuring ornate mausoleums and artistic gravestones, offering a serene and visually stunning experien...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1863 cemetery overlooking the ocean, featuring ornate mausoleums and artistic gravestones, offering a serene and visually stunning experience.
"This place is absolutely unique and super beautiful at the same time! It’s an old cemetery that was built way back in 1863, and overlooks the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean."
🚶♀️ Respectful Visit
Remember this is a sacred site. Observe quietly and avoid disturbing the peace. Locals may find casual wandering disrespectful.
🚗 Parking Availability
Limited street parking is available on Calle Cementerio. Arrive early or consider walking from nearby attractions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oceanfront Mausoleums
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean
Ornate mausoleums and unique gravestones create a stunning artistic landscape against the backdrop of the sea.
Artistic Gravestones
Throughout the cemetery
Each tombstone is a unique piece of art, adorned with statues and religious symbols, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Serene Atmosphere
Throughout the cemetery
Experience a peaceful and serene environment, enhanced by the sound of waves and the historical ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Oceanfront Views & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Respectful Visit
Remember this is a sacred site. Observe quietly and avoid disturbing the peace. Locals may find casual wandering disrespectful.
🚗 Parking Availability
Limited street parking is available on Calle Cementerio. Arrive early or consider walking from nearby attractions.
📸 Capture the Art
The gravestones are unique works of art. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and statues.
🌊 Ocean Views
Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from various points within the cemetery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Respectful Visit
Remember this is a sacred site. Observe quietly and avoid disturbing the peace. Locals may find casual wandering disrespectful.
🚗 Parking Availability
Limited street parking is available on Calle Cementerio. Arrive early or consider walking from nearby attractions.
📸 Capture the Art
The gravestones are unique works of art. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and statues.
🌊 Ocean Views
Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from various points within the cemetery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the cemetery's stunning beauty, unique artistic gravestones, and breathtaking ocean views, describing it as a peaceful and serene place. However, some express concern over the visible deterioration in certain areas, noting broken crypts and a lack of upkeep, urging others to see it before it declines further.
"We visited the Cemetery here and it was both stunning and peaceful. It’s quite amazing how many graves there were but they still made every gravestone look like a piece of unique art. So many statues and religious symbols decorated the graves."
Alec B.
"This place is absolutely unique and super beautiful at the same time! It’s an old cemetery that was built way back in 1863, and overlooks the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean.
You can get there by taking Calle Cementerio, a narrow road leading directly to the entrance. It’s tucked between El Morro fortress to the west and the La Perla neighborhood to the east. There is some street parking.
I’ll always cherish my time spent there!
🇵🇷🌊🌴🫶🏼🥰"
Sam Ortiz
"Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis is a super interesting place. Nestled by the ocean in Old San Juan, this historic cemetery offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The combination of the beautiful tombstones, the sound of the waves, and the rich history make it a unique and peaceful spot to visit. When you visit the forts do take the time to walk through here. It was not as crowded as the fields just outside of the fort."
Dustin Southway
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is accessible via Calle Cementerio, a narrow road located between El Morro fortress and the La Perla neighborhood in Old San Juan. Limited street parking is available.
Parking can be limited. It's best to arrive early or consider walking from nearby attractions like El Morro.
Yes, if you are exploring Old San Juan, it's a walkable distance, especially if you're visiting the forts.
Information on direct public transport routes is scarce. Walking or using a taxi/rideshare service from Old San Juan is generally recommended.
The main paths are generally paved, but some areas might be uneven. It's advisable to check accessibility on-site or with local guides.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to enter the cemetery, making it a free attraction.
Specific opening hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours when it's safe and respectful.
While the cemetery is a beautiful and historic site, it's important to be mindful and respectful. Some locals may find casual wandering disrespectful. Observe quietly and avoid disturbing the peace.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and any ongoing ceremonies or visitors.
While not always advertised, some local tour operators in Old San Juan may include the cemetery in their historical walking tours.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas overlooking the ocean offer stunning backdrops. The ornate mausoleums and detailed gravestones are also prime subjects.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic and sensitive areas. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the cemetery's architecture and ocean views.
Be mindful of the solemnity of the place. Avoid intrusive photography and always be respectful of mourners and the deceased.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive ocean views and cemetery grounds, while a prime lens can focus on intricate details of the gravestones.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
The cemetery was established in 1863, making it a historic landmark in Old San Juan.
It is the final resting place for many famous Puerto Ricans, though specific names are not always highlighted for casual visitors.
The cemetery features ornate mausoleums and elaborate gravestones, reflecting a unique blend of artistic and religious symbolism.
Its prime location by the Atlantic Ocean offers breathtaking views and a unique, serene setting for the departed.
While some areas are meticulously maintained, there are concerns about deterioration in certain parts, with some crypts showing damage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's essential to emphasize the respectful nature of the visit. Explain to children that this is a place where people are remembered and honored. Keep the tone calm and quiet, and ensure they understand not to disturb any markers or decorations. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as exploring the grounds can involve a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and the scale of the cemetery, as well as a macro lens or prime lens to focus on the detailed sculptures and inscriptions. Remember to be discreet and respectful while shooting, as this is a place of remembrance. Avoid using flash in a way that might disturb others.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Cemetery Grounds
Navigating the cemetery involves walking along paved paths, but some areas can be uneven or have steps. The proximity to the ocean is a defining characteristic, providing a constant, soothing soundtrack of waves and offering spectacular views. This juxtaposition of solemnity and natural beauty is what many find most captivating. It's important to wear comfortable shoes and be mindful of the terrain as you explore.
While the cemetery is generally peaceful, some reviews mention signs of deterioration in certain sections, with broken crypts and visible bones. This highlights the ongoing challenge of preserving such a historic site. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate its beauty while being aware of its condition and to tread with care.
Respect and Local Perceptions
Some visitors have noted that locals might perceive casual wandering or overly boisterous behavior as disrespectful. The key is to maintain a quiet demeanor, observe the surroundings thoughtfully, and avoid any actions that could be construed as intrusive or lacking in reverence. This means refraining from loud conversations, not disturbing any grave markers, and generally treating the space as you would any place of remembrance.
This understanding is crucial for a positive and meaningful visit. By being mindful of local customs and the sacred nature of the site, you can ensure your exploration is both enriching for you and respectful to the community and those interred there.
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