Mountaineers' Cemetery

The Mountaineers' Cemetery (Bergführerfriedhof) in Zermatt is a solemn and poignant landmark located next to the Church of St. Mauritius on Kirchstrasse. This small cemetery is the final resting place for many climbers who lost their lives attempting to conquer the Matterhorn and other nearby peaks, including the first four victims of the Matterhorn's first ascent in 1865. The graves are marked by simple wooden crosses or stone plaques, often inscribed with the climber's name, age, and date of death. Some memorials include personal mementos left by family and friends. The cemetery is surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection. It serves as a powerful reminder of the risks and sacrifices of mountaineering, and is a must-visit for those interested in alpine history.

Don't miss

• See the graves of the first Matterhorn ascent victims
• Read the inscriptions on the crosses and plaques
• Reflect in the peaceful, mountain-surrounded setting
• Visit the adjacent Church of St. Mauritius
• Learn about the history of mountaineering in Zermatt

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Mountaineers' Cemetery

Cheapest way inThe Best of Zermatt: Guided Small Group Village Walk4.8★ · 12 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$124 per personSee dates →Most bookedMount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise4.5★ · 1,341 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$201 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleGuided Hiking Half Day in Zermatt5★ · 24 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$405 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor as this is a burial site.
• Photography is allowed, but avoid taking pictures of grieving visitors.
• Weather can change quickly; bring a jacket even in summer.
• Read about the 1865 Matterhorn disaster beforehand for deeper context.

A bit of history

The cemetery was established in the 19th century following the tragic first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865, when four of the seven climbers fell to their deaths. Since then, it has become the burial site for numerous mountaineers who died in the Alps.