Recoleta Cemetery
About
Recoleta is one of the more affluent areas of Buenos Aires, and within this affluent area lies the very impressive Recoleta Cemetery. El Cementerio de la Recoleta (The Recoleta Cemetery) is one of Buenos Aires' most visited places. Dating back to the 18th century, the Recoleta Cemetery is best described as "the city of the dead." It is packed with mausoleums and tombs grouped together like city blocks separated by pathways. Many of these mausoleums have detailed sculptures and fine architecture adorning their outsides.
Who is Buried in Recoleta Cemetery?
Recoleta Cemetery is home to many notable figures, including former presidents, such as Raúl Alfonsín, and historical figures in Argentine history like Admiral William Brown. In addition to scientists, writers, and wealthy families.
Why is the Recoleta Cemetery Famous?
The cemetery's main draw is its most famous resident, former first lady of Argentina, Evita Perón. In modern times her name is much associated with the musical 'Evita'. Her body was finally laid to rest here after being stolen, hidden, and even copied. The cemetery is like a labyrinth and offers the challenging element of getting lost and trying to find the exit. Guided tours of the cemetery are available and highly worthwhile. These tours provide great insights into the history of the cemetery and help visitors navigate its maze of narrow pathways.
A visit to the Recoleta Cemetery is well worth fitting into your itinerary when visiting Buenos Aires. Even if many of the names of those laid to rest there are unfamiliar, the sheer extravagance and investment in the mausoleums will leave you quite astonished. You can visit the page on Recoleta to find out more about the area.
Other attractions close to the Recoleta Cemetery include the Museo National de Bellas Artes, Basílica Nuestra Señora del Pilar and La Floralis Generica Sculpture.
Did You Know?
Within the Recoleta Cemetery is the grave of Admiral Brown. Brown was an Irishman credited with being the founder of the Argentine navy and a national hero in a number of wars for independence. His grave is based on Admiral Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square in London but on a much smaller scale. It is also colored green to represent his Irish roots.
If you're interested in more popular places to visit in Buenos Aires, take a look at our Best Attractions in Buenos Aires.
How to get to Recoleta Cemetery:
Subway
The nearest station is Las Heras on Linea H (the yellow-colored line). It’s approximately a 10-minute walk from there to the cemetery.
Bus
The following local bus routes pass within a close radius to the cemetery: 5, 10, 17, 37, 38, 39, 41, 59, 60, 61, 62, 67, 75, 92, 93, 95, 101, 102, 106, 108, 110, 124, 130, and 152.
Address
Junín 1930
To find out more about using public transport in Buenos Aires, including details on buses, subways, trains, taxis, ride-sharing services, and how to obtain and use the SUBE card, visit the Best Way to Get Around Buenos Aires section.
Visiting Hours:
Monday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Entrance:
International tourists will need to pay an entrance fee. For national residents entrance is free. :
Tourists under 18 years should be accompanied by an adult.
For more detailed information, please visit the Recoleta Cemetery website.