The Recoleta: Infamous Cementario

During the boom-time and for years later, those wealthy Porteños looking to immortalized themselvesselves and their family name would purchase a plot and build their own monument. Often employing the best artisans and using the finest Italian marble, the result is one of the most spectacular collection of mausoleums, statues and sarcophagi containing the crypts, tombs and other containers of rotting bones etc. in the world. Many of the names here are of the cities elite and rich and famous. Perhaps most tourists who visit the cemetery come to see Eva Perón’s grave. I looked for Sarmiento’s grave as well as Saenz Peña and other characters and historical figures of Argentina’s colorful history. Although San Martin, the grand liberator of Argentina is not buried here (his body and the eternal flame of liberty) are located in the catedral just off Plaza de Mayo in the microcenter.

Amos Evita Grave

The crowds gather around Evita’s and her family’s grave. Where’s Juan’s body today? (photo by Tim Amos)

Evas Rose Recoleta

A new rose to replace the fading. The day Evita died at 33 years old in 1952, the country stopped. And they haven’t stopped remembering.

Evita Grave1

Amos Recoleta2

(photo by Tim Amos)

Buenos Aires 135 - Version 2

Angelic figures, virgens, struggle and strife are all depicted in creative expressions on the edifices of these monuments of death.

Recoleta1

Recoleta2

Who can build the tallest and grandest tomb of all?

Recoleta Crypts

Line up. Reserve your space. People are dying to get in here.

Recoleta Mal Estado

Some of the graves are very well maintained, others have been neglected and seemingly sadly forgotten.

2 replies
  1. Angie
    Angie says:

    The cememtary looked too “kool” with the mausoleums , sarcophagi and the marble…. I wish I could have visited Evita during my time there in BA…. great sots from you and Tim!!!!

    Reply
  2. Angie
    Angie says:

    The cememtary looked too “kool” with the mausoleums , sarcophagi and the marble…. I wish I could have visited Evita during my time there in BA…. great sots from you and Tim!!!!

    Reply

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