Table of Contents
What to Expect
The Cementerio la Reina is an impressive cemetery in Cienfuegos. It was opened in 1837, and although it has aged a bit here and there, even today, its statues and tombs are impressive and magnificent. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Cienfuegos was an important area for sugar production. Thus, many of the tombs belong to wealthy plantation families.
One of the most famous is the grave of Sleeping Beauty in Spanish “Bella Durmiente.” Here rests since 1907 a 24-year-old woman who is told that she died from her broken heart. Also, very striking, but typical for Cienfuegos: many of the names on the graves are French. Conditioned by the foundation of the city by French immigrants from Bordeaux and Louisiana.
The cemetery is protected by guards. They are needed to keep Santería believers from looting graves. Because human bones are part of the religious ceremonies, and since the graves here are above ground, it is easier to loot them.
- Discover: Our ultimate 3-week Cuba itinerary
- Tickets: Book your Cienfuegos Walking Tour online (does not include a visit to the cemetery)
Rating
Maybe a little strange to make a trip to a cemetery. But it is, in any case, interesting to visit this place and learn about the history of the city and its inhabitants. There are some graves with fascinating stories. It is better to go in the morning because there is no shade in the cemetery. The cemetery is old, the salty air and the high water table make it sometimes smelly, and everything is a bit more crumbly than you expect. The cemetery is too narrow between the graves for wheelchairs and strollers, but otherwise barrier-free.
Weather Independent
Spontaneous Booking
For all Fitness Levels
Accessibility
Duration & Cost
Organized Tour
Self-Organized
Duration:
There is an on-site janitor, sometimes, a lady or the guards offer a guided tour that lasts around 30 minutes. The opening hours are daily between 8 am and 5 pm.
Cost:
Sometimes the tours are free, sometimes there is an entrance fee which is around 4 US-Dollar.
- Tickets: Book your Cienfuegos Walking Tour online (does not include a visit to the cemetery)
- Tip: Check out good hotels in Cienfuegos and the largest selection of Casa Particulares in Cienfuegos
How to Get There
A 20-minute walk from the center of Cienfuegos. Alternatively, you can take a horse-drawn carriage, a cab or pedicab.
What to Pack
- Money
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Sun Hat / Cap
- Camera
- Mosquito repellent
Tours Nearby
Share Now
Jetzt Teilen
