Recoleta Cemetery & Eva Peron: the Top Buenos Aires Landmark?

La Recoleta Cemetery is one of Buenos Aires’ most iconic landmarks, not only for its eerie and elaborate mausoleums, but as the final resting place of some of the world’s best-known Argentinians. This is a fascinating must-visit for any visitor to Buenos Aires.

I knew of the cemetery because of Evita, the musical and film that depicted the life of Eva Perón, one of Argentina’s most compelling historical figures. Seeing it in person is quite an experience.

While I’m not a natural cemetery-visitor, don’t miss out on Recoleta Cemetery, which is like a mini-city frozen in time. There’s over 6,400 statues, sarcophagi, coffins and crypts across a massive 14 acres.

With 3 weeks in Buenos Aires, I visited twice, so let me share with you my best travel advice on how to get there and make the most of your trip.

Entrance Fee & Opening Hours

• Free for national residents

• $14320 ARS for international tourists = $15 USD

• Visiting Hours: 9am-5pm, Monday to Sunday

• More information on the official Cemetery website here.

How to Get There

La Recoleta Cemetery is conveniently located in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires. The easiest way to reach the cemetery is by taking a taxi or using public transportation. The closest subway station is Las Heras (Line H), just a short walk from the cemetery.

It’s also a pleasant walk from many parts of the city centre, so you can get in your steps on the way!

Location of La Recoleta Cemetery

Junín 1760, Recoleta, Buenos Aires

Nearest Transport

• Subway: Las Heras Station (Line H)

• Bus Lines: 10, 37, 41, 59, 60, 67, 92, 130

• Try these local lunch spots in Recoleta after your visit.

Why Visit La Recoleta Cemetery?

Visiting La Recoleta Cemetery is like stepping back in time. Each mausoleum is a work of considerable architectural effort, with styles from neo-gothic to Art Nouveau, and indicates the wealth of Argentina’s prominent families.

Eva Perón: Argentina’s Most Famous First Lady

Who Was Eva Perón? Eva Perón, affectionately known as Evita, was the First Lady of Argentina from 1946 until her death in 1952. Born in poverty, she rose to fame as an actress before marrying Juan Perón, who became President of Argentina. Eva was a powerful and influential figure, championing labour rights and women’s suffrage. Her own rags to riches history made her a legend in Argentine history.

The Connection to the Musical “Evita” The musical “Evita,” composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, immortalizes Eva Peron’s life story. It captures her journey from a small-town girl to a national icon, and features the famous song “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.” There’s no doubt that Evita is famous beyond Argentina because of the musical. And I have to confess, it’s very tempting to hum songs from the musical as you walk around Buenos Aires!

**The Duarte Mausoleum ** Eva is buried with her birth family, the Duarte Family. She died in 1952, but her remains were not moved to the Duarte family grave until 20 years later. Her remains are in a crypt over 5 metres below the ground (as a means of protection).

Guided Tours of Recoleta Cemetery: Are they worth it?

It’s easy to get from most downtown locations to Recoleta Cemetery and you can pay for a ticket at the entrance (see fee information above). But taking part in a guided tour might be best for most of us, as a knowledgeable guide can give you much more insight and lead you around the huge cemetery to the main sites. Plus most tours are incredibly inexpensive.

Why Take a Guided Tour?

• Historical Context: Guides offer detailed historical context that you might miss on a self-guided tour. They bring it to “life” (can’t think of a better term!)

• Hidden Gems: Learn about lesser-known tombs and interesting anecdotes.

• Efficient Route: A guide can lead you through the cemetery’s highlights efficiently, ensuring you see the most important sites.

**Some Popular Recoleta Cemetery Tours **

• **Free Tours in Spanish: **take a free guided tour (in Spanish only) at 11am or 2pm Tuesdays-Fridays. You still have to pay for an entrance ticket.

• **Recoleta Cemetery Tour in English: **this 2 hour walking tour is so inexpensive and is very highly rated.

• **Private Walking Tour of Recoleta: **this tour takes in Recoleta Cemetery and surroundings, and entirely fits your schedule.

• **Hop-on Hop-off City Bus Tour: **1-3 day passes includes stops near Recoleta Cemetery.

Conclusion

La Recoleta Cemetery is a must-visit destination in Buenos Aires. Yes, you could perceive a cemetery visit as slightly creepy, and it IS a wee bit eerie to wander around and see coffins (I have saved you the photographs!). However, the architecture and layout of this mini-city of the dead is well worth your time and, if you’re a fan of musicals or history, the story of Eva Perón is not to be missed.