The Cementerio Municipal is a picturesque and serene cemetery lined by swaying trees and the tombs of affluent colonial families. It is known for its elegant and impressive mausoleums, which lure many sightseers on the weekend. Take a break from the bustle of the city and meditate on life as you visit this tranquil site.
Before entering the cemetery, gaze up at the haunting Latin inscription that translates as “Today me, tomorrow you.” Stroll along the graceful paths past the landscape gardens and notice the peaceful and solemn atmosphere. This is a popular gathering spot for locals. Relax on one of the many benches in the shade of a tree and read a book.
Capture photos of the intriguing walls of tombs, each with its own glass-plated shrine containing decorative features such as flowers, photos and other artifacts. Families are often separated, with new arrivals put into the next available niches. Embark on a guided tour for a comprehensive overview of the cemetery.
Consider the size of this large plot of land as you relax in the gardens. Families are able to rent their loved one’s expensive tomb space for a maximum of 7 years, before having to exhume and place the remains elsewhere. See the large mausoleums that contain the remains of Sucre’s elite, including former presidents.
Visit during the annual Todos Santos or All Saints festival at the beginning of November, when locals come here to pay their respects to lost loved ones.
The complex opens daily from morning until late afternoon, with a closure at lunchtime. Enter the cemetery for free. Pay a fee for an interesting tour, often provided by neighborhood children.
The Cementerio Municipal is a little south of the downtown area of Sucre. It is adjacent to the Plaza Oruro, a 20-minute walk southwest from the historic center. You can also take a taxi or microbus to get here. See other landmarks in the area, such as the Quirpinchaca River, the Plaza Maria J. Mujia and the San Roque Church.
