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Cemitério de São João Batista: A City of the Dead

Explore the art, architecture, and history within Rio de Janeiro's 'Cemetery of the Stars,' the final resting place of Brazilian icons.

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The Cemitério de São João Batista in Rio de Janeiro's Botafogo neighborhood is more than just a cemetery; it's an open-air museum and final resting place of Brazilian luminaries. Wander through its maze of mausoleums and monuments to discover the stories of presidents, artists, and cultural icons.

A brief summary to Cemitério de São João Batista

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground.
  • Consider visiting with a guided tour to learn more about the history and the famous figures buried here.
  • Photography is permitted, but be respectful of the solemn atmosphere.
  • Check the cemetery's website for information on special events or guided tours.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From most parts of Rio de Janeiro, take the Metro to Botafogo station. From there, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the cemetery. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the Botafogo area and have stops near the cemetery. Bus fares are around R$4.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. A taxi from Copacabana to the cemetery would cost approximately R$30-R$40, depending on traffic. Be sure the driver turns on the meter, or agree on a fare beforehand.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Botafogo or nearby neighborhoods like Flamengo, walking to the cemetery is a viable option. From the Botafogo Metro station, walk along Rua General Polidoro. The cemetery will be on your left. Note that sidewalks can be uneven in places.

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Discover more about Cemitério de São João Batista

Cemitério de São João Batista, established in 1852, is the only cemetery located in Rio de Janeiro's South Zone. Often called the “Cemetery of the Stars,” it is the final resting place for numerous famous Brazilians, including presidents, musicians, actors, and artists. The cemetery spans a vast area of approximately 45 acres and contains over 25,000 tombs. Its architecture showcases a variety of styles, including neoclassical, art deco, and neo-gothic elements. The site is considered a significant cultural and artistic landmark, offering a glimpse into Brazil's history and artistic heritage through its elaborate sculptures and mausoleums. Visitors can explore the graves of notable figures such as composer Tom Jobim, singer Carmen Miranda, and aviator Alberto Santos Dumont. The cemetery also holds crypts for the Brazilian Academy of Letters, soldiers who died in World War I, and veterans of the Brazilian Expeditionary Force. In 2015, Cemitério de São João Batista became the first cemetery in Latin America to be featured on Google Street View, allowing virtual tours of its grounds. Some graves of famous individuals also feature QR codes that provide information about the deceased.

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