Nyamata Genocide Memorial Church
Urwibutso rwa Nyamata
One of Rwanda's most important genocide memorial sites. Victims' clothing is piled inside the church, and the underground crypt holds about 45,000 people.
Nyamata Catholic Church is in Nyamata town, Bugesera District. In April 1994, about 10,000 people were killed inside and around the church. Bullet holes, bloodstains and heaps of victims' clothing have been preserved inside the church. The underground crypt behind the church holds the remains of about 45,000 victims from the surrounding area. It is a national memorial site, and visits are led by a guide. Entry is free (donations welcome), and photography is prohibited indoors. Please keep quiet and dress respectfully. It is about 45 minutes' drive from Kigali and is often visited on the same day as Ntarama Church.
Opening hours
Daily 08:00–17:00 (check official sources)
Nearby sights
- Ntarama Church Genocide Memorial
- Nyanza Genocide Memorial (Kicukiro)
- Mount Rebero Viewpoint & Memorial
- Nyamirambo & Green Mosque
- Caplaki Craft Village
- Mount Kigali
- Rwanda Art Museum (former Presidential Palace)
- Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial (Camp Kigali)