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General Cemetery of Guatemala City

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

General Cemetery of Guatemala City (Guatemala)

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The General Cemetery of Guatemala City is one of the most significant necropolises in Central America and a designated national heritage site. It was established in 1881 during the presidency of Justo Rufino Barrios on the grounds of the former 'El Incienso' hill. Covering approximately 40 hectares, the cemetery is famous for its grand mausoleums that showcase various architectural styles, including Neoclassical, Gothic, and Art Deco. Many prominent figures from Guatemalan history, including former presidents, renowned artists, and influential writers, are buried here. The site suffered extensive damage during the massive earthquakes of 1917, 1918, and 1976, some of which remains visible in the historic sections. Beyond its function as a burial ground, the cemetery serves as an open-air museum of funerary art and national history. Notable structures include the Barrios family mausoleum and sections dedicated to the victims of the country's past political turmoil.

Location: Guatemala
Top sights: Tragic Week (Guatemala) · Temple of Minerva (Guatemala) · Guatemala City General Cemetery
Nearby: Santa Catarina Pinula (5 km)
Population: ~994.938 (2020)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	19	21	22	23	23	22	21	21	21	20	19	19
Rain mm	5	7	12	41	163	225	172	223	243	191	43	8

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The General Cemetery of Guatemala City is a historic cemetery with ornate mausoleums, open to the public. Visitors can walk among the impressive tombs and admire the various architectural styles. Entry is usually free.

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Typical hours

The cemetery is typically open daily from about 7am to 5pm, hours may vary on holidays. It is recommended to come in the morning before it gets too hot.

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Photography

Photography is allowed, but please be respectful. Some families may be sensitive to photographs of graves. Tripods and professional gear are usually allowed.

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Time needed

A walk takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend looking at details. Those interested in the history of the buried personalities should allow longer.

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Combine with

The cemetery is near the historic center of Guatemala City, where the National Palace and the Cathedral are located. A city tour can be well combined with the visit.

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Getting there

The cemetery is easily reachable by bus or taxi as it is in a central area. Parking is limited but available on surrounding streets.

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Insider tip

Bring a list of the most notable graves or ask at the entrance for recommendations. Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Geography

Population

994,938 (2020)

Coordinates

14.62200, -90.52800

Facts

Inaugurated in 1881 during the presidency of Justo Rufino Barrios.
Built on the site of the former 'El Incienso' hill in the capital.
The cemetery covers a total area of approximately 40 hectares.
Extensively damaged by the earthquakes of 1917, 1918, and 1976.
Home to the final resting places of many former Guatemalan presidents.
Regarded as the country's most important funerary architecture site.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Guatemala Bottling Plant<1 km · SExplore →

Guatemala City2 km · NExplore →

Altar de Sacrificios2 km · WExplore →

Kaminaljuyu2 km · SExplore →

Sierra de Chuacús3 km · NExplore →

Paseo Cayalá5 km · NExplore →

San Francisco de Campeche5 km · WExplore →

Laguna Chichoj6 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town General Cemetery of Guatemala City (3)

Tragic Week (Guatemala)📍 landmark

This event commemorates a week of unrest and violence in Guatemala City.

Temple of Minerva (Guatemala)📍 landmark

The temple is a neoclassical building dedicated to the Roman goddess Minerva.

Guatemala City General Cemetery📍 landmark

The cemetery is a large burial ground with many historic tombs and mausoleums.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can the cemetery be visited?

Yes, it is open to the public daily.

Are there historical tombs?

Yes, many presidents and famous personalities are buried here.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Visiting in groups is recommended; stay on the main paths.

What is the best time to visit?

Mornings are quieter; November 1st (All Saints' Day) is very busy.

How do you get there?

By taxi or bus to Zone 3 of Guatemala City.

General Cemetery of Guatemala City: where is it located?

General Cemetery of Guatemala City is located in Guatemala.

General Cemetery of Guatemala City: what is there to see?

Highlights include Tragic Week (Guatemala), Temple of Minerva (Guatemala), Guatemala City General Cemetery.

General Cemetery of Guatemala City: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

General Cemetery of Guatemala City: why is it worth visiting?

The General Cemetery of Guatemala City is one of the most significant necropolises in Central America and a designated national heritage site.

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