Visiting a cemetery does not always have to be a traumatic and distressing experience. Being one of the quietest places you can find in a city, many people enjoy visiting cemeteries and walking through the streets of these places while observing the architecture.
The Chacarita Cemetery is the largest in the City of Buenos Aires and also one of the most important in the world. Within its perimeter are the remains of prominent personalities of Argentine culture. In addition, its spacious design with streets that seem “labyrinthine” invites you to explore it with time and calm.
Chacarita Cemetery (Buenos Aires): Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit
What is the Chacarita Cemetery?
The Chacarita Cemetery is one of the most significant cemeteries in Buenos Aires. Covering 95 hectares, it is not only one of the largest cemeteries in the world but also the biggest in Buenos Aires. The cemetery was established in 1871 as an urgent response to the yellow fever epidemic that struck the city.
With existing cemeteries overwhelmed by the number of deaths, Chacarita Cemetery was built rapidly, along with a funeral tram that was used to transport bodies to the site.
Initially, the cemetery faced hygiene issues and numerous cremations, leading to its closure in 1875. However, it continued to operate until it was definitively closed on December 9, 1886. In 1887, burials resumed, and the cemetery officially received its name on March 5, 1949. Notably, on November 13, 1903, the crematorium within the cemetery was inaugurated.
Architecture of the Facade
While the mausoleums and tombs inside the cemetery showcase a variety of architectural styles, the facade of Chacarita Cemetery is distinctly Greek in influence. The entrance is designed in the Greek Doric order, evident in its robust columns with pronounced grooves and pointed tops. The capitals are simple and unadorned, and there is no base at the lower end.
The entablature features triglyphs and metopes, with a relief on the pediment depicting God descending to provide mercy to the living and collect the dead. This relief shows a strong Hellenistic influence, further emphasized by the sculpture of the Archangel Gabriel atop the sima, pointing to the heavens.
Subterranean Architecture
The underground architecture of mausoleums and tombs was designed by Ítala Fulvia Villa, one of Argentina’s first female architects. The underground pantheon features horizontally constructed niches and is considered an example of brutalist architecture.
Notable Personalities Buried in Chacarita Cemetery
Chacarita Cemetery is the final resting place for many prominent figures from Argentine politics, sports, and culture. There are also private pantheons dedicated to security forces, the Argentine Actors Association, and various immigrant communities.
Some notable figures whose remains were once in Chacarita Cemetery but have been relocated include Juan Domingo Perón, boxer José María Gatica, and musicians Pappo Napolitano and Federico Moura. The cemetery is open year-round with free access, and guided tours are available to visit the tombs of these important personalities.
Where is the Chacarita Cemetery?
Chacarita Cemetery is located in the Chacarita neighborhood, close to the border with Villa Crespo. Chacarita is primarily a residential area with some commercial zones, and the cemetery’s surroundings are busy due to several major avenues that run nearby.
On weekends, the area to the north of the cemetery becomes particularly lively due to the Los Andes Park fair, attracting many visitors.
To the south of the cemetery, you’ll find Avenida San Martín and the Paternal neighborhood bordering Villa Crespo. To the west lie the more residential neighborhoods of Villa Ortúzar, Agronomía, and Parque Chas.
The Colegiales neighborhood, bordering Belgrano to the northwest and Palermo to the northeast, is to the north. Finally, to the east of Chacarita lies Villa Crespo. Although not typically a tourist hotspot, the Chacarita neighborhood offers a unique attraction in the cemetery.
How to Get to the Chacarita Cemetery?
The quickest and easiest way to reach Chacarita Cemetery is by subway. The Buenos Aires Subway’s Line B has a station almost directly in front of the cemetery’s main entrance, meaning you won’t have to walk far. Additionally, you can transfer between subway lines with a single ticket if needed.
There are also several bus lines that pass near the cemetery, including lines 42, 44, 47, 63, 65, 76, 78, 87, 111, 119, and 176. If you prefer, you can take the San Martín railway line to the Villa Crespo station, just five blocks from the cemetery.
If you’re driving or cycling, you’ll find that the area around the cemetery is generally quiet with light traffic. Most private parking lots are located to the east and north of the cemetery.
Why Visit the Chacarita Cemetery?
Visit the Tombs of Important Personalities
Unlike the Recoleta Cemetery, Chacarita Cemetery is home to the graves of several key figures in Argentine culture. For generations, icons like Carlos Gardel, Gustavo Cerati, and Gilda have been immortalized in this cemetery.
Gardel’s tomb is easy to find thanks to its prominent bust, while Cerati and Gilda’s graves are located within galleries that require climbing a few stairs.
Appreciate the Architecture and Style of the Pantheons
Each vault and pantheon in Chacarita Cemetery features a unique architectural style. From the exterior walls to the interior spaces, including the dimensions of the structures and the ornamentation with sculptures, many elements are allegorical, depicting angels, deities, and religious beliefs.
A Visit Marked by Peace and Silence
In the bustling city of Buenos Aires, it’s challenging to find a place where you can truly enjoy peace and quiet. Chacarita Cemetery is an ideal spot if you’re looking for a relaxing walk amidst green spaces, open skies, and tranquil streets.
In some areas of the cemetery, you’ll find benches and places to sit and rest. Remember to respect the cemetery’s atmosphere and avoid making too much noise.
