Mummies of Guanajuato, Guanajuato
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the historic city of Guanajuato, Mexico, lies a macabre yet fascinating attraction: The Mummies of Guanajuato. This eerie museum is home to a collection of naturally mummified bodies that were interred during a cholera outbreak in the 19th century. Over time, the arid climate and unique mineral composition of the soil preserved the bodies in remarkable detail, offering a window into the past and a somewhat chilling tourist experience.
Discovered in a local cemetery between 1865 and 1958, the mummies were exhumed when a tax imposed on burial plots was not met. The bodies that were unearthed stunned onlookers with their lifelike appearances, prompting the creation of the museum. The Mummies of Guanajuato have since become one of the city's most iconic attractions, drawing visitors from around the globe.
The museum houses over a hundred mummies, including men, women, and children, each with their own haunting story. The expressions of the mummies, frozen in time, convey a range of emotions from anguish to serenity, leaving a lasting impression on those who walk the halls of this unusual gallery.
The Mummies of Guanajuato Museum offers an unforgettable experience for those with a curiosity for the extraordinary and a taste for history. Not only does it provide insight into the burial customs and practices of the time, but it also serves as a testament to the natural mummification process. The museum is open to the public daily, and guided tours are available for those seeking a deeper understanding of the site's history and its preserved inhabitants.
Mummies of Guanajuato – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Alhóndiga de Granaditas, San Roque Plaza, Teatro Cervantes, Universidad de Guanajuato.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Mummies of Guanajuato open?
- Monday 9 am - 6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am - 6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am - 6 pm
- Thursday 9 am - 6 pm
- Friday 9 am - 6:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am - 6:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am - 6:30 pm