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Colón Cemetery

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Colón Cemetery (Cuba)

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The Colón Cemetery (Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón) in Havana is one of the world's largest and most artistically significant cemeteries. Established in 1876 and covering 57 hectares, it is famous for its over 800,000 graves and more than 500 major mausoleums carved from premium Carrara marble. The main entrance is a grand 21-meter-high Byzantine gate adorned with sculptures representing Faith, Hope, and Charity. The cemetery is organized like a city, with a grid of streets and plazas containing the final resting places of many of Cuba's most famous politicians, artists, and heroes. One of its most famous sites is the tomb of 'La Milagrosa' (Amelia Goyri), a place of pilgrimage for Cubans seeking miracles. Architecturally, the cemetery features a memorable array of styles including Neoclassical, Art Deco, and Eclectic designs. Notably, Christopher Columbus’s remains were held here until 1899 before being moved back to Spain. It was declared a National Monument of Cuba in 1987 for its historical and cultural value.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222425272829292928272524
Rain mm302923336410883108102874530

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Colón Cemetery is a vast outdoor cemetery that visitors can walk through freely during opening hours. Guided tours are available to learn about the elaborate tombs and notable figures buried here.
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Typical hours
The cemetery is typically open daily from around 8:00 to 17:00, but hours can change on holidays. It is best to arrive in the morning to avoid the heat and large tour groups.
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Photography
Photography is allowed, but be respectful as it is an active burial site. The ornate mausoleums and sculptures offer excellent photo opportunities.
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Time needed
A thorough walk through the main avenues takes about 1-2 hours. Art and history enthusiasts may want to spend up to half a day exploring the intricate monuments.
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Combine with
Combine with the nearby Vedado neighborhood and the Hotel Nacional. The cemetery is also close to the Malecón for a seaside stroll afterwards.
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Getting there
Located in the Vedado district of Havana, it is easily reached by taxi or bus. Many city tours include the cemetery as a stop.
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Insider tip
Bring a hat and sunscreen as there is little shade among the marble tombs. Look for the famous statue La Milagrosa, a popular pilgrimage site.

Geography

Coordinates
23.13200, -82.35500

Facts

  • The cemetery was officially opened in 1876.
  • It spans 57 hectares (roughly 140 acres) of land.
  • There are over 800,000 interments within its walls.
  • The main entrance archway stands 21 meters (69 feet) tall.
  • It contains the Monument to the Firefighters, built in 1890.
  • Declared a National Monument of Cuba in 1987.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Church of La MercedChurch of La Merced<1 km · EExplore →
Santiago de las VegasSantiago de las Vegas3 km · WExplore →
Havana Industrial ComplexHavana Industrial Complex3 km · SExplore →
Almendares RiverAlmendares River5 km · SExplore →
Hemingway HouseHemingway House6 km · NExplore →
Fortress of CojímarFortress of Cojímar8 km · NExplore →
BatabanóBatabanó10 km · NWExplore →
Havana Steel PlantHavana Steel Plant11 km · SExplore →

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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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Colón Cemetery (2)

Arco de Belén, Havana📍 landmark

Arco de Belén in Havana is a historic archway, recalling the city's fortifications.

Fuente de la India📍 landmark

Fuente de la India is a fountain in Havana, depicting an indigenous woman.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Cementerio de Colón world-famous?
It is one of the largest and most artistic cemeteries in the Americas, known for its magnificent marble sculptures.
Which is the most visited grave there?
The grave of 'La Milagrosa' (Amelia Goyri), where many people make pilgrimages to ask for miracles.
How do you find your way around the huge grounds?
At the main entrance, you can buy maps or hire official guides, which is highly recommended.
Is there a fee to enter the cemetery?
Yes, tourists must pay an entrance fee at the gate (usually around 5 USD/Euro).
What is the best way to reach the cemetery?
It is located in the Vedado district and is easily accessible by taxi or the Hop-On Hop-Off bus.
Colón Cemetery: where is it located?
Colón Cemetery is located in Cuba.
Colón Cemetery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Arco de Belén, Havana, Fuente de la India.
Colón Cemetery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Colón Cemetery: why is it worth visiting?
The Colón Cemetery (Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón) in Havana is one of the world's largest and most artistically significant cemeteries.
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North America
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Nearby cities

Santiago de las Vegas — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Santiago de las Vegas
A city in the Havana province, home to the Cuban Meteorological Institute.

History & landmarks

El Capitolio — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
El Capitolio
A monumental government building inspired by the US Capitol in Washington.
Church of La Merced — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Church of La Merced
One of the most magnificent churches in Havana with a rich interior.
Cathedral Square — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Cathedral Square
An important historic square in the old town of Havana.
Paseo del Prado — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Paseo del Prado
A famous tree-lined promenade in the center of Havana.
Palace of the Captains General — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Palace of the Captains General
Former seat of Spanish governors in Havana, now the city museum.
Calle Obispo — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Calle Obispo
A busy pedestrian street in Old Havana lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
A historic hotel built in the 1930s that is a legend.
Havana Cathedral — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Havana Cathedral
One of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, built in baroque style on the Cathedral Plaza.

Nature

Almendares River — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Almendares River
A river that flows through Havana, dividing the city in two.

More places

Museum of the Revolution — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Museum of the Revolution
Former presidential palace, now the Museum of the Revolution.
Port of Havana — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Port of Havana
The main port of Havana Bay and one of Cuba's busiest maritime gateways.
José Martí Birthplace — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
José Martí Birthplace
Birthplace of Cuba's national hero in Havana.
Havana Textile Factory — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Havana Textile Factory
Production of apparel.
Fortaleza de la Cabaña — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Fortaleza de la Cabaña
Large 18th-century fortress east of the harbor entrance.
Havana Industrial Complex — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Havana Industrial Complex
An industrial site associated with Cuba's state-led manufacturing and processing sector.
Colon Cemetery — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Colon Cemetery
One of the most historically significant cemeteries in the world, in Havana.
Havana Fishing Port — Colón Cemetery (Cuba)
Havana Fishing Port
Center of the fishing fleet.