Mausoleo del Che Guevara Guide
Mausoleo del Che Guevara: A Place of Remembrance Guide
The Mausoleo del Che Guevara in Vallegrande is a somber and respectful memorial dedicated to Ernesto "Che" Guevara and his fellow guerrillas who were killed in Bolivia in 1967. This site serves as a place of pilgrimage for those who admire Che's revolutionary ideals and a place of reflection on the complexities of history. Located near the hospital where Che's body was displayed after his execution, the mausoleum offers a powerful and moving experience. The mausoleum was built after the discovery of Che Guevara's remains in a mass grave near Vallegrande in 1997, thirty years after his death. The remains of Che and several of his comrades were exhumed and identified, and they were subsequently reburied in the mausoleum. The site is designed to be a place of quiet contemplation and remembrance, honoring the sacrifices made by Che and his followers. Visitors to the Mausoleo del Che Guevara can pay their respects at the individual burial sites, each marked with a simple plaque bearing the name of the deceased. The mausoleum also features a small museum that displays photographs and information about Che Guevara's life and his time in Bolivia. The atmosphere is one of reverence and respect, and visitors are encouraged to reflect on the historical significance of the site. While in Vallegrande, take the opportunity to explore the local markets and sample some traditional Bolivian cuisine. *Tucumanas* (fried pastries filled with meat and vegetables) are a popular local snack.
Transportation
The Mausoleo del Che Guevara is located in Vallegrande, making it easily accessible. From the main plaza, it's a short walk to the site, located near the hospital. You can reach Vallegrande by bus from Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Several bus companies operate daily services between the two cities.