Panteón de San Fernando Mexico City
A historic cemetery and museum in CDMX, home to notable figures like Benito Juárez and a sanctuary for cats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Panteón de San Fernando Mexico City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cemetery and museum in CDMX, home to notable figures like Benito Juárez and a sanctuary for cats.
"A free, peaceful, and historically rich site in the heart of Mexico City."
🎯 Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy this historic site without an entry fee. A great budget-friendly option in CDMX!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking on uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mausoleum of Benito Juárez
Central area
Visit the final resting place of Mexico's first indigenous president, a pivotal figure in national history.
Tombs of Illustrious Mexicans
Various sections
Explore the ornate tombs of other prominent 19th-century figures, showcasing historical art and architecture.
+1Colonial Architecture
Church and mausoleums
Admire the colonial-era church and the detailed funerary art, reflecting the historical significance of the site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy this historic site without an entry fee. A great budget-friendly option in CDMX!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking on uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
📸 Photography Allowed (Mostly)
Capture the history, but be mindful of restrictions on professional cameras.
🐈 Cat Sanctuary
Discover the resident cats who find refuge here, cared for by locals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy this historic site without an entry fee. A great budget-friendly option in CDMX!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking on uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
📸 Photography Allowed (Mostly)
Capture the history, but be mindful of restrictions on professional cameras.
🐈 Cat Sanctuary
Discover the resident cats who find refuge here, cared for by locals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Panteón de San Fernando to be a historically significant and peaceful site, especially given its free admission. The chance to see the tombs of notable figures like Benito Juárez and appreciate the 19th-century funerary art is a major draw. Some reviewers note that certain areas can appear a bit neglected, and professional photography may have restrictions.
"To be reel, this is just a relatively old (most tombs are dating back to the middle of the 19th century) cemetary. There ain't no museum there, and crypts are a little bit neglected. Accidentally stumbled upon the grave of Benito Juárez, the first Mexican president with indigenous origin. The entrance is free, and I think it may be an interesting 30-minute visit. It's near Hidalgo station, so it is along the path pretty everywhere."
Alex Klénin
"This is the cemetery where Mexico's president, Benito Juárez, is buried. It's a very historic place with other important figures in revolutionary history buried there. It's a very small cemetery but I loved it."
Beck V
"Note to tourists: when I visited, the door security said that this has been closed for two years since the bad earthquake. At the time there was a woman with her child and caretakers inside. I don't know if it's in fact closed or not to locals. You can still see the mosoleums through the bars. There was also a temporary installation of artful skulls and post-mortem photography, so it was worth visiting."
Jennifer Perkins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Panteón de San Fernando is conveniently located near the Alameda Central in the historic center of CDMX. You can easily reach it via the Metro, with Hidalgo station being the closest. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from other central attractions.
Yes, it is very accessible by public transport. The Metro system is efficient, and Hidalgo station is a short walk away. Buses also serve the area frequently.
From the Alameda Central, head towards the north-west. It's a straightforward walk, and you'll likely pass by other historical landmarks on your way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Panteón de San Fernando is free! This makes it an excellent and accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally open during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or special event hours before your visit.
Yes, you can visit on weekends, but expect it to be more crowded. Weekdays offer a more tranquil experience for exploring the historical grounds.
Sometimes special events or guided tours are offered, particularly focusing on historical figures or specific themes like funerary art. Keep an eye out for announcements, especially for events like those on the first Saturday of the month.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the historical tombs and architecture. However, professional photography equipment or commercial shoots might require special permission.
The mausoleums of famous figures like Benito Juárez, the intricate details on older tombs, and the colonial church offer great photographic opportunities. The late afternoon light can also be beautiful for capturing the atmosphere.
While personal photos are usually fine, be aware that some specific exhibits or sensitive areas might have 'no photography' signs. Always respect these notices.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's known as a historic cemetery and museum where many prominent Mexican figures from the 19th century are buried, including President Benito Juárez. It showcases historical funerary art and architecture.
The 'museum' aspect often refers to the preserved tombs and mausoleums themselves, which serve as historical artifacts. You can see the final resting places of presidents, military leaders, and other notable individuals.
It's a relatively small cemetery, making it a manageable visit, often described as a good 30-minute to an hour experience.
A unique aspect is the presence of numerous cats that inhabit the grounds, cared for by local volunteers. It's also a place where you can learn about funerary symbolism.
It was one of the most exclusive cemeteries of the 19th century, reserved for the wealthy and important. It later opened to the public during epidemics before eventually closing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing it as a 'history detective' mission to find specific tombs or 'art appreciation' for the sculptures. The resident cats are a definite draw and can make the experience more lighthearted. Ensure children understand the importance of being respectful in a place of remembrance.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Alameda Central or explore other free attractions in the historic center of Mexico City. Pack some snacks and water to enjoy before or after your visit, making it a truly cost-effective cultural experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While personal photography is generally allowed, be mindful of any restrictions on professional equipment. The presence of the resident cats also offers charming candid photography opportunities. Visiting during the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon can enhance the mood and visual appeal of your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Historical Significance and Notable Burials
It is most famously known as the final resting place of Benito Juárez, Mexico's first president of indigenous origin and a key figure in the country's liberal reforms. Other notable figures interred here include presidents like Comonfort and Vicente Guerrero, as well as various military leaders, politicians, and artists who shaped Mexican history. Exploring the pantheon offers a tangible connection to these influential individuals and the era they lived in.
The pantheon's history also includes periods of closure, notably in 1871 due to saturation and later after earthquakes. Despite these challenges, it remains a vital historical site, preserving the memory of those who contributed to Mexico's development.
Art, Architecture, and Symbolism
Beyond aesthetics, many graves feature funerary symbolism, offering insights into beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. Symbols like urns, weeping angels, obelisks, and floral motifs carry specific meanings that art historians and enthusiasts can decipher. The church associated with the pantheon also adds to the architectural richness, showcasing colonial-era design.
While some crypts may show signs of age and neglect, the overall collection of tombs provides a valuable glimpse into the artistic expressions and cultural attitudes towards death and remembrance during a pivotal period in Mexican history.
The Feline Residents of San Fernando
Local residents and volunteers, organized under initiatives like 'Catacumberitos,' actively care for these cats, providing food and basic medical attention. This community effort has transformed the pantheon into a safe haven for these animals, making them an integral part of the site's living history. Visitors often find joy in observing these well-cared-for felines as they explore the grounds, adding an unexpected layer of charm to the experience.
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