Tucked away in the northern-eastern part of Paris lies a fascinating and lesser-known destination that has captivated the hearts of art lovers, writers, musicians, and fans of the paranormal alike. Welcome to Père Lachaise Cemetery, affectionately known as “The City of the Dead.” This beautiful and historic cemetery is home to countless famous figures from various fields, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and the arts.
A Brief History of Père Lachaise Cemetery
Père Lachaise Cemetery was named after François d’Aix de La Chaise, Louis XIV’s confessor. The cemetery is an architectural masterpiece that showcases various styles, from Haussmannian vaults to Gothic tombs, ancient mausoleums, Second Empire monuments, neoclassical buildings, and sculptures from all periods. With over 70,000 concessions covering a total area of 48 acres, Père Lachaise Cemetery is a true outdoor museum.
The cemetery was founded in the late 18th century by Georges-Eugène Haussmann, the Marquis de Riveau, who envisioned it as a grand burial ground for the city’s elite. Over the years, the cemetery has been expanded and renovated numerous times, with various architects and artists contributing to its design and construction.
Where it’s Located and How to Get There
Père Lachaise Cemetery is located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, and there are several entrances to choose from. The main entrance is situated on Boulevard de Menilmontant, while other entrances can be found on Rue du Repos, Boulevard des Amandiers, Rue des Rondeaux, and Rue de la Réunion.
To get to Père Lachaise Cemetery, you can take the metro (line 2 or 3) to Philippe Auguste station, which is a short walk from any of the entrances. Alternatively, you can take bus lines 61, 69, 71, N16, or N34 to stop Roquette-Père Lachaise.
Hours and Prices
Père Lachaise Cemetery is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm from November to mid-March. From mid-March to October, the cemetery is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays and 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekends.
Admission is free, making it accessible to everyone. However, guided tours are highly recommended to make the most of your visit and gain a deeper understanding of the cemetery’s history and significance.
Tours, Guided Visits, and Online Tickets
If you want to explore Père Lachaise Cemetery without getting lost in its labyrinthine paths, consider booking a guided tour. These tours typically last around 2 hours and offer a unique perspective on the cemetery’s famous residents, including Abelardo and Eloisa, Edith Piaf, Marcel Proust, Oscar Wilde, and Jim Morrison.
Online tickets are also available, making it easy to plan your visit in advance. However, be aware that availability may be limited during peak season.
What to See and How to Visit
Père Lachaise Cemetery is a treasure trove of artistic and cultural significance, with many famous figures buried here. Here are five must-see tombs to add to your itinerary:
- Abelardo and Eloisa: The oldest residents of the cemetery, Abelardo founded a school that later became the University of Paris, where Eloisa studied.
- Edith Piaf: A legendary French singer who rose to fame on the streets of Paris, known as “La Môme Piaf.”
- Marcel Proust: The renowned author of “In Search of Lost Time,” a seven-volume masterpiece that explores the human experience.
- Oscar Wilde: An Irish playwright and poet who scandalized Victorian England with his wit and humor.
- Jim Morrison: The iconic American rock star, poet, and icon of crowds.
Tips for Visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery
To make the most of your visit to Père Lachaise Cemetery, here are some practical tips:
- Get up early: Arrive at the entrance before opening hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Book a guided tour: A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the cemetery’s winding paths and introduce you to its fascinating residents.
- Bring a map: The cemetery is vast, so it’s essential to have a map or GPS device to navigate its paths.
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Behavior and Etiquette
When visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery, remember to behave respectfully and discreetly. Avoid loud noises, disrespectful behavior, and any actions that might disturb the peace.
The Cemetery’s Famous Residents
Père Lachaise Cemetery is home to an impressive array of famous residents from various fields, including art, literature, music, politics, and science. Some of the most notable figures buried here include:
- Abelardo and Eloisa: The oldest residents of the cemetery, Abelardo founded a school that later became the University of Paris, where Eloisa studied.
- Edith Piaf: A legendary French singer who rose to fame on the streets of Paris, known as “La Môme Piaf.”
- Marcel Proust: The renowned author of “In Search of Lost Time,” a seven-volume masterpiece that explores the human experience.
- Oscar Wilde: An Irish playwright and poet who scandalized Victorian England with his wit and humor.
- Jim Morrison: The iconic American rock star, poet, and icon of crowds.
The Cemetery’s Artistic Significance
Père Lachaise Cemetery is a treasure trove of artistic significance, with many famous artists and architects contributing to its design and construction. Some of the most notable examples include:
- Gustave Eiffel: The renowned engineer who designed the Eiffel Tower was buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery.
- Honoré Daumier: A French painter and sculptor, Daumier is known for his satirical depictions of Napoleon III’s regime.
- Camille Pissarro: A Danish-French Impressionist painter, Pissarro is known for his landscapes and urban scenes.
The Cemetery’s Paranormal Reputation
Père Lachaise Cemetery has a long-standing reputation for being one of the most haunted places in Paris. Many visitors have reported strange occurrences, including ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and eerie feelings. Whether or not you believe in the paranormal, a visit to Père Lachaise Cemetery is sure to leave you with a sense of wonder and awe.
Conclusion
Père Lachaise Cemetery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, culture, history, and the arts. With its stunning architecture, fascinating residents, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s an experience unlike any other. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore “The City of the Dead.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Is Père Lachaise Cemetery open every day?
A: Yes, Père Lachaise Cemetery is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm from November to mid-March and 8:00 am to 7:00 pm from mid-March to October. - Q: Can I visit Père Lachaise Cemetery for free?
A: Yes, admission to Père Lachaise Cemetery is free, but guided tours are highly recommended to make the most of your visit. - Q: How do I get to Père Lachaise Cemetery?
A: You can take the metro (line 2 or 3) to Philippe Auguste station, which is a short walk from any of the entrances. Alternatively, you can take bus lines 61, 69, 71, N16, or N34 to stop Roquette-Père Lachaise. - Q: What are the opening hours for Père Lachaise Cemetery?
A: The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm from November to mid-March and 8:00 am to 7:00 pm from mid-March to October. - Q: Can I take photos in Père Lachaise Cemetery?
A: Yes, but be respectful of the cemetery’s rules and regulations. Please do not block walkways or disturb graves.
By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to Père Lachaise Cemetery and experience all that this incredible place has to offer.
