One of the most beautiful and oldest cemeteries in Chile, filled with history, struggle and solidarity.
I have come here on various occasions with tours, Chileans remembering family members, as well as with friends visiting and it never ceases to amaze me.
The entry into the cemetery makes you feel as if you have been transported into Europe, with a beautiful circular brick street, large stone buildings and biblical sculptures.
As a tourist, with little knowledge of Chilean history, the two main resting spots to be seen would be that of Salvador Allende as well as Victor Jara however, the head stones, large mausoleums, and sculptures within the cemetery are reason enough to walk through this vast space until the end.
As you walk in, take a minute to pay your respects to those who "disappeared" during Pinochet's dictatorship. There is a large wall filled top-to-bottom with names as well as pictures, flowers and notes in their remembrance.
Another heartbreaking sight is the juxtaposition of the dirt graves, known to be used for those who cannot afford more, right behind the large gravestones of those who could afford to be buried in "luxury."
If you have time, see if you can be let into the Italian mausoleum (one of the gatekeepers let us in and it was absolutely breathtaking).
Also, take a quick stop to see the different flower shops on your way out. read more