Cementerio No. 1 Iquique
A historic cemetery in Iquique, Chile, holding centuries of stories from its Peruvian origins to the saltpeter boom and beyond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Day of the Dead celebrations
Cementerio No. 1 Iquique
Best Time
Day of the Dead celebrations
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cemetery in Iquique, Chile, holding centuries of stories from its Peruvian origins to the saltpeter boom and beyond.
"This historic site offers a unique glimpse into Iquique's past, with tombs dating back to the 1800s."
Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour to uncover hidden stories and historical context.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
3.3 · 9 reviews
Type
Cemetery
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
War Heroes' Memorial
Cementerio N°1
A moving tribute to soldiers and sailors, including those from the naval battle of Iquique. A must-see for history buffs.
Italian Colony Mural
Cementerio N°1
A beautifully preserved mural showcasing the legacy of Iquique's Italian community. A testament to cultural heritage.
Santa María School Massacre Memorial
Cementerio N°1
A poignant memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 1907 school massacre, inviting reflection.
Veterans of '79 Mausoleum
Cementerio N°1
A significant monument honoring veterans, offering a glimpse into Chile's military history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour to uncover hidden stories and historical context.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Visit During Memorials
Experience special events like the Romeria on May 20th for a unique cultural insight. 
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly and respectfully, as it's a place of remembrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour to uncover hidden stories and historical context.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Visit During Memorials
Experience special events like the Romeria on May 20th for a unique cultural insight.
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly and respectfully, as it's a place of remembrance.
Capture the History
Bring your camera to document the unique mausoleums and memorials. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cementerio No. 1 for its immense historical significance and unique insights into Iquique's past, particularly its Peruvian roots and saltpeter era. The well-preserved memorials and mausoleums are highlights, though some note the site's abandoned state and untapped tourist potential.
"A historic site in Iquique, with tombs dating from 1800 onward and home to the main colonies that inhabited Iquique, this place should be declared a city heritage site and restored accordingly. A must-see is the beautiful mural of the Italian colony and the tomb of the war heroes of the battles fought on these lands."
Francisco Vergara
"The best way to learn about and connect with the history of Iquique. This cemetery dates back to the years when Iquique belonged to Peru, which is why you'll find many tombs related to the neighboring country. You'll also find tombs and mausoleums related to the War of the Pacific and the annexation of Iquique to Chile at its end. You'll notice many foreigners, mostly merchants, sailors, or adventurers who came to the port. There are also memorials such as the one to the Santa María School Massacre in 1907 or the one to the crew of the Esmeralda Corvette, which was sunk in the famous naval battle of Iquique. You can take a tour of the cemetery for several hours."
Gonzalo OHidalgo
"Despite the devastation caused by earthquakes, ancient and interesting mausoleums dating back more than a hundred years, belonging to the Creole aristocracy, most of them linked to the saltpeter past, still stand stoically. The memorial at the entrance to the victims of the Santa Maria School massacre, the memorial to the veterans of the 1979 war, and the victims of the naval battle of Iquique are moving. The place invites reflection on the glorious past of this beautiful city!"
Rubén Sothers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cementerio No. 1 is located in Iquique, Chile. You can reach it by taxi or local bus from the city center. Many visitors opt for a taxi for convenience, especially if they are not familiar with the public transport system. Some tours may also include transportation to the cemetery.
Yes, local buses that serve the Iquique area typically have routes that pass near or go directly to the vicinity of Cementerio No. 1. It's advisable to check with local transport authorities or your accommodation for the most current bus routes and schedules.
Depending on your starting point and your comfort with walking, it might be possible to walk to Cementerio No. 1 from downtown Iquique. However, it's a considerable distance, and taking a taxi or bus is generally recommended for efficiency and comfort.
While specific dedicated parking lots might not be clearly marked, street parking is often available near the cemetery entrances. If you are driving, be mindful of local parking regulations and ensure you are not obstructing any access points.
If you are coming from Pisagua, which is about two hours from Iquique, you would first need to travel back to Iquique. From Iquique, you can then use local transport like taxis or buses to reach Cementerio No. 1.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to enter Cementerio No. 1. It is a public space, though donations are often appreciated to help with its upkeep and preservation.
The cemetery is typically open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check locally or with a tour guide for the most accurate opening times, especially if you plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
While the cemetery itself is free to enter, guided tours usually have a fee. These tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the site.
Yes, you can visit on holidays, and in fact, some holidays like November 1st (All Saints' Day) are significant times for visiting cemeteries in many cultures, including Iquique. Expect larger crowds during these periods.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the site as it is a place of rest. Large groups might need to coordinate in advance, and any disruptive behavior is not permitted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the War Heroes' Memorial, the Italian Colony Mural, the Santa María School Massacre Memorial, and the Veterans of '79 Mausoleum. A guided tour will highlight these and other significant tombs.
Cementerio No. 1 is generally considered safe for visitors, especially during daylight hours. As with any historical site, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
To truly appreciate the history and explore the grounds, allocate at least 2-3 hours for your visit. If you opt for a guided tour, factor in the tour duration as well.
Restroom facilities may be limited or not readily available within the cemetery grounds. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit or inquire about nearby public restrooms.
Exploring on foot is the best way to see the details of the mausoleums and memorials. Consider joining a guided tour for historical context or exploring independently if you prefer a self-paced visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Cementerio No. 1. It's a popular spot for photographers interested in historical architecture and poignant memorials.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography. Overcast days can also provide soft, even lighting, ideal for capturing details.
The War Heroes' Memorial, the Italian Colony Mural, and the older, ornate mausoleums are highly photogenic. The overall atmosphere of the cemetery also lends itself to evocative imagery.
Always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography of any ongoing ceremonies or private memorials.
Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries and public historical sites due to privacy concerns and potential disturbance. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit