Review: La Recoleta Cemetery

Tell me: What’s this place all about?
Located in posh Recoleta neighborhood—where moneyed Porteños live—this cemetery features thousands of statues, mausoleums that resemble Gothic chapels, crypts, fairytale grottoes, sarcophagi, coffins, and elegant little houses that hold the remains of some of Argentina’s most iconic and celebrated figures. Eva Perón? Yup, she's buried here. Entrance is free, though a map will cost you about three pesos, so just show up and start wandering the mini walkways.

Wow. What’s it like being there?
It's eerie and beautiful. You don't have to be a religious person or an architecture fan to be moved—or at the very least impressed—by this place.

Pretty interesting! Is there a guide involved?
On Tuesday and Thursday mornings, there are free tours in English. But you can grab a map at the entrance and explore on your own.

Who comes here?
It's a popular spot right in the heart of a touristy neighborhood, so pretty much everyone visits—including those who have loved ones buried here. Take a moment to think about where you are before you Instagram.

Did it meet expectations?
This is undoubtedly one of the world's most impressive cemeteries. Go, if only to escape the traffic and chaos of the city for a moment.

Got it. So, then, what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
Consider this a must do when you're in Recoleta, which you most certainly will be at some point during your Buenos Aires visit.