Historic Traslarena Cemetery Reopens After Decades of Neglect

The restoration of the Traslarena cemetery in San Andrés is more than just a building project; it is an act of historical justice. After sitting abandoned for over 60 years, the cemetery will host a religious service this November 2 for All Souls' Day—the first such event since the early 1980s. This milestone is a direct result of local residents fighting back against decades of institutional neglect.

Founded in 1893 following a cholera outbreak, the cemetery offers a unique look into the area's social history. It stopped accepting burials in 1964, and by 1976, it faced the threat of demolition due to urban development plans. Thanks to the persistence of neighborhood groups like El Pescador, the site was saved, leading to a formal rehabilitation agreement between the regional government and the Santa Cruz city council in November 2023.

The first phase of the project, which included repairing the chapel and replacing nearly 180 crosses, is complete. Now, researchers are working to document the site and identify the more than 200 people buried there, including victims of the 1898 Flachat shipwreck.

By preserving this site, the community is not only honoring its maritime heritage but also protecting a vital piece of collective memory. With the chapel reopened following the completion of works in December 2025, the cemetery has been transformed from a forgotten ruin into a place of respect and historical significance.