New Orleans' Famous Cemeteries - Final Resting Places of Residents & Legends
Picture walking around a graveyard that's more like an outdoor museum. That's the same as exploring New Orleans' special cemeteries. These aren't regular graveyards; they're full of history and connected to the city's heart. So, let's take a digital tour and learn about some of the coolest "cities of the dead" in the Big Easy.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: History You Can Touch
In 1789, when New Orleans was finding its groove, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 started. Imagine going back in time just by walking around. Those fancy tombs and delicate iron decorations are like small houses for those who've passed away.
Oh, and don't forget about Marie Laveau's tomb – she was a famous voodoo priestess. People leave presents there, hoping for a bit of her magical powers. These tombs above the ground aren't just about remembering the past; they're necessary because of the city's wetland and its mix of French and Spanish traditions.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Interesting Facts:
Marie Laveau: Tomb of the famous Voodoo Queen; people leave offerings for her powers.
Nicholas Cage: Actor has a pyramid-shaped tomb here, a unique addition to the place.
Visits by Legends: Nicolas Cage, Dr. John, and Anne Rice are enchanted by its mystique.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Size and Guided Tours
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is compact and packed with history and stunning tombs.
Since the cemetery is smaller, exploring on foot is a great option. Guided tours can also help you navigate the labyrinthine layout and learn about its famous residents.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: Where Movies and History Meet
Next, head to Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, hanging out in the pretty Garden District. This isn't just a history spot; it's a movie star too! You might have seen it in films or on TV. Besides being famous on screen, it's also an important historic place.
Those tombs with their Greek Revival and Egyptian styles? They're like a mini art lesson. And guess what? People who care about saving cool old stuff are ensuring this place stays cool for generations.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 Interesting Facts:
Garden District: Located in a historic area, it offers a stroll through charming streets.
Ornate Tombs: Almost all burials reflect the city's customs.
Filming Spot: Eerie beauty made it a favorite filming location.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 Size and Guided Tours:
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is also compact and easy to navigate.
Like St. Louis Cemetery, you can comfortably explore this one on foot. The cemetery's proximity to the Garden District provides a pleasant stroll spot once you explore the historic homes.
Metairie Cemetery: Resting Place of NOLA’s Rich And Famous
Get ready to be amazed at Metairie Cemetery. It opened its doors in 1872 and hosts some really important folks like famous politicians and business big-shots.
The sculptures and monuments? They're like artwork from a dream – or maybe a fancy TV show. You'll see symbols that show what people cared about during different times. It's like New Orleans' way of saying life is awesome, even after it's done.
Metairie Cemetery Interesting Facts:
Monuments and Mausoleums: Artistic sculptures and memorials; deeply moving.
Ignatius J. Reilly: Statue of the famous novel character stands here.
Notable Resting Places: It holds Governor Huey P. Long's and Anne Rice's tombs.
Metairie Cemetery Size and Guided Tours
Metairie Cemetery is expansive, covering over 150 acres.
Due to its size, exploring Metairie Cemetery on foot could be tiring. Opting for a guided bike tour can help you cover more ground while enjoying the picturesque landscape and discovering notable tombs.
Greenwood Cemetery: Calm and Quiet
If you're into peaceful places, Greenwood Cemetery is your spot. Since 1852, it's been a quiet space away from the city noise. Think tall trees and calm ponds – it's like a nature escape and a memory place.
If you're into chess, check out Paul Morphy's tomb. This chess champ still brings fans from everywhere. With their old-fashioned style, the tombs here are like freeze-frames from a long time ago. And guess what? It's perfect for thinking about life, death, and everything that matters.
Greenwood Cemetery Interesting Facts:
Natural Oasis: Serene with oak trees and ponds; nature retreat in the city.
Paul Morphy: Chess champ's tomb; a pilgrimage site for chess enthusiasts.
Bird Sanctuary: Attracts various bird species; a haven for birdwatchers.
Greenwood Cemetery Size and Guided Tours:
Greenwood Cemetery is moderately sized, offering a mix of green spaces and tombs.
This cemetery is perfect for a leisurely walk, with its tranquil atmosphere and manageable size. On foot, you can appreciate the natural beauty and explore the intriguing tombs up close.
The Perfect Time to Visit New Orleans’ Historic Cemeteries
New Orleans' cemeteries are best explored during the cooler months, typically from October to April. The weather is milder, making your explorations more comfortable. Avoid the hotter summer months when the humidity can be quite intense.
What to Expect On Your Tour
As you venture into these historic resting places, expect to be transported to a different time. The thick air contains history, past stories, and enigmatic allure. The beautiful sculptures and ornate tombs will leave you in awe. You'll find a sense of serenity and beauty and an opportunity to delve into the city's cultural tapestry.
Explore on Foot – Or Better Yet – Book Guided Bike Tours:
Guided bike tours are a fantastic way to soak in New Orleans' cemeteries' rich history. Guided Bike tours provide valuable insights into the cemeteries' history, architecture, and cultural importance.
Moreover, they're a perfect choice to explore a larger area and discover hidden gems that might be difficult to access on foot alone. Biking not only adds an element of enjoyment but also align
Are You Ready to Tour Through NOLA’s Enigmatic Past?
Exploring these cemeteries isn't just about learning; it's like jumping into a storybook full of tales about love, loss, and the spirit of New Orleans. They're more than just resting spots – they're living pieces of the city's cool culture.
A Friendly Reminder on How to Show Respect to New Orleans' Cemeteries
Hey there,
As you get ready to explore the captivating cemeteries of New Orleans, it's awesome that you're considering how to honor these special places. Here are some simple tips to make sure your visit is respectful and keeps the magic of these spots alive:
Snap with Care:
Taking photos is cool, but let's be mindful. Snap pics that capture the beauty of the architecture and the vibe, but maybe skip close-ups of individual tombs out of respect for the folks resting there.
Keep it Clean:
Littering isn't our style. Let's leave these places as beautiful as we found them. Toss your trash in proper bins and keep the space free of anything that doesn't belong.
Stay on Track:
Cemeteries have paths for a reason – to help us enjoy the place without accidentally messing anything up. Stick to those paths and help protect the tombs and surroundings.
Embrace the Peace:
When you're exploring, remember that cemeteries are peaceful places. Keep your voice down and soak in the tranquility. It's a way to show respect to those who come to remember their loved ones.
Ask Before You Go In:
Your guide will show you which spots to check out. If not, respect the privacy of the resting places and avoid going in unless you're told it's okay.
Be Culture-Smart:
These cemeteries hold deep meaning for many people. Be aware of your surroundings and how others are acting. Let's keep the vibes positive and respectful.
Play by the Rules:
Cemetery rules are there for a reason – to ensure everyone can enjoy the place while honoring its significance. Stick to those rules, and you're golden.
Thanks for being awesome and thoughtful as you explore. Your respect helps keep the history and stories of these cemeteries alive.
Have an amazing time!