Cemetery in ruins
Behind the hospital is the beautiful cemetery of San Juan de Dios, known as the "Panteón Viejo," (old cemetery) It was constructed in 1773 by Dr José Joaquín Hidalgo y Costilla, the cura in the Villa of San Miguel el Grande, and the brother of the famous Miguel Hidalgo. At one time, the hospital, church, and cemetery were connected by a passageway.
Many famous people are buried this cemetery, including don Ignacio Comonfort, an ex-president of Mexico and the father of "El Nigromante," as well as ex-governors, etc. There are many Indians buried in the western part of the cemetery.
The cemetery fell into ruin for many years, but it has been restored and is being cared for. It is only open once a year, on All Souls' Day, November 2.
San Juan de Dios cemetery today