Stone & Marble: Lima’s Monumental Cemetery Experience

Overview

Discover one of Lima’s hidden gems: the Presbítero Matías Maestro Cemetery, built in 1808 and considered the oldest public cemetery in the Americas. This stunning historic complex feels like an open-air museum, filled with neoclassical mausoleums, sculptures, and the tombs of Peru’s most notable figures. Highlights include the impressive Crypt of Heroes, a national memorial dedicated to those who fought in the War of the Pacific, and themed pavilions that reveal how society once understood life, death, and history — including the Pavilion of Suicides, which today serves as a reminder of how attitudes toward mental health have changed over time. Perfect for travelers seeking culture, architecture, and stories you won’t hear in conventional tours. A truly unique look at Lima’s heritage!