El Mozote Monument
El Mozote, El Salvador
An extremely somber place to the people of El Salvador and the world, the El Mozote Monument memorializes the innocent civilians killed during El Salvador’s Civil War. Its tiles display the names of those murdered by the Atlacatl battalion. The silence, even when people are present, reminds you of the sadness and pain of war.
The basics
You can visit the El Mozote Monument by joining a tour focused on Salvadoran Civil War history. Some take you to different sites throughout the country, including El Mozote. If you decide to go on your own for a visit, it’s easy to explore the monument independently; along with seeing the main tiles hung on its brick walls, you’ll also want to spend time at the nearby church where men and boys were killed, as well as the church’s memorial garden area, Jardin de Reflexion Los Inocentes.
Things to know before you go
If you go on your own to the El Mozote Monument, an onsite tour guide can show you around—there’s no entrance fee, but tips are appreciated.
Keep in mind the onsite tour guides usually only speak Spanish.
Be sure to head to the church in El Mozote near the monument to see the art mural on its side commemorating the children killed during the massacre.
A very dark part of history happened in El Mozote—it may not be the best place to bring young children unless you’re comfortable with them hearing the historical details and seeing the remnants of burned homes.
On certain days, handmade crafts that villagers have created will be on display—bring a little extra cash if you’d like to get something.
How to get there
The village of El Mozote is in a remote part of El Salvador 143 miles (230 kilometers) from the capital of San Salvador. If you’re driving from San Salvador, it generally takes around 4 hours. If you’re not comfortable with the roads, taking a tour that stops at the attraction is the best way to visit as the monument lies on El Salvador’s Peace Route.
When to get there
The best time to visit El Mozote Monument is during the day, especially in the mid-morning, before the heat of the late afternoon. Because the location is remote, there usually won’t be large crowds. It’s best to go when others are around for safety reasons and to get the most out of your experience.
Combine a visit to Perquin
If you want to get more out of your time in El Salvador’s Morazan Department, combine the Mozote Monument with a visit to the Museum of the Revolution (Museo de la Revolución Salvadoreña) in Perquin. The museum is another great pick for history buffs as it displays many artifacts from the Salvadoran Civil War, and you can explore the museum at your own pace.
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