THE BIGGEST OLD CEMETERY IN PHILIPPINES🇵🇭

Manila North Cemetery

Here’s a detailed overview of the Manila North Cemetery in Manila, Philippines:

📍 Basic Info

Name: Manila North Cemetery (Spanish: Cementerio del Norte)

Location: Santa Cruz district, City of Manila, Philippines.

Size: Approximately 54 hectares.

Established: Originally laid out in 1904 (as a separate cemetery) after being part of La Loma cemetery grounds.


🏛 Historical & Cultural Significance

It houses mausoleums and burial sites of many prominent figures in Philippine history: several former presidents, national artists, revolutionaries, etc.

The cemetery’s architecture is diverse: Greek-Roman, Egyptian-inspired, Art Deco, large family mausoleums.

During the Japanese occupation in World War II, parts of the cemetery were sites of atrocities (more than 2,000 non-combatants are reported to have been killed in October–November 1944).


👥 Social Aspects & Current Use

Not only a burial ground, but also a living community: Many impoverished families have historically inhabited mausoleums or empty spaces within the cemetery.

During the holiday of All Souls’ Day (Undas) the cemetery becomes very crowded with visitors. For example, in 2025 it was reported visitors arrived early.


✅ Why it’s noteworthy

Historical depth: Over a century of use, representing multiple eras of Philippine society.

Architectural interest: The variety of tombs and mausoleums offers a kind of open-air gallery of funerary architecture.

Cultural snapshot: The living-and-dead intersection (families living inside, vendors, visitors) offers a unique social dynamic rarely seen in typical cemeteries.

Proximity: Since you’re in Quezon City / Metro Manila, it’s relatively accessible if you ever want to visit.


⚠️ Things to note / visitor tips

It’s a large, sprawling site. Finding specific graves can be challenging—having some identifying info (family name, mausoleum name, plot number) helps.

If going during peak times like Undas, expect heavy visitor traffic and crowded surroundings.

Some areas may be less maintained than others—some tombs are historic and beautifully preserved; others more modest or less kept.

While generally safe during daylight with many visitors, as with any large cemetery it’s wise to be alert, especially in less-trafficked zones and as evening approaches.

Respectful attire and behavior are important (it’s a functioning cemetery).