The Most Beautiful Cemetery in New Orleans, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the cemetery you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on Apr 28, 2024 06:17

In the heart of New Orleans, the serene beauty of its cemeteries captures the essence of the city's rich cultural tapestry. Each site tells a unique story, not only through its historical architectural elements but also through the whispered tales of past residents. Understanding which cemetery resonates most with visitors and locals alike can deepen one’s appreciation for the city’s history and artistic expression inherent in these sacred spaces. By participating in voting for the most beautiful cemetery, individuals contribute to a collective recognition of beauty and significance. This process helps highlight the cemeteries that offer exceptional visual and emotional experiences, encouraging more people to visit and reflect upon these poignant landmarks. As votes accumulate, the dynamic, community-curated ranking evolves, reflecting current public sentiment and admiration.

What Is the Most Beautiful Cemetery in New Orleans?

1

78
votes

Flipper9 at English Wikipedia · Public domain

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

This is the oldest cemetery in New Orleans and is also the final resting place of many influential figures in the city's history. The elaborate above-ground tombs and intricate artwork make it a popular tourist destination.
2

31
votes
President Rhapsody · CC BY-SA 3.0

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

Located in the Garden District, this cemetery features winding paths and ornate tombs, and has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is a historic cemetery located in the Garden District of New Orleans, Louisiana. Established in 1833, it is one of the oldest and most beautiful cemeteries in the city, known for its stunning above-ground tombs and intricate architectural details.

Location: Garden District, New Orleans, Louisiana

Established: 1833

Architectural Style: Greek Revival

Famous Tombs: The Hustler's Tomb, The Brevard Tomb, The Roman Courtyard

Design Features: Intricately decorated above-ground tombs, ornate ironwork fences and gates
3

24
votes
Infrogmation · CC BY 2.5

Metairie Cemetery

This cemetery is known for its beautiful landscaping and unique tombs, including a pyramid-shaped mausoleum. It is the final resting place of many prominent New Orleanians.
Metairie Cemetery is a historic and breathtakingly beautiful cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere, as well as its stunning architecture and lush greenery. The cemetery spans approximately 150 acres, making it one of the largest and oldest cemeteries in the city. Its origin dates back to 1872 when a group of prominent New Orleans citizens established it as a non-denominational cemetery.

Size: Approximately 150 acres

Established: 1872

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Atmosphere: Serene and peaceful

Architecture: Stunning and varied
4

21
votes
Greenwood Cemetery

Théophile Blin d'Avène

This cemetery features ornate tombs and monuments, as well as a beautiful reflecting pool. It is the final resting place of many jazz musicians and other notable figures.
Greenwood Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is known for its captivating beauty and serene atmosphere, making it one of the most visually stunning cemeteries in the city. The cemetery features exquisite architectural elements and lush greenery, creating a peaceful and enchanting environment for visitors.

Established: 1836

Size: nearly 48 acres

Burials: over 20,000

Architecture: Neoclassical, Gothic Revival, Egyptian Revival

Notable Tombs: Duverje Family Tomb, Sage Family Tomb, Lockett Family Tomb
5

15
votes
St. Roch Cemetery

This cemetery is known for its distinctive, brightly painted tombs and its historic chapel. It is the final resting place of many working-class New Orleanians.
St. Roch Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is known for its unique architectural features, serene atmosphere, and historical significance.

Year Built: 1874

Architectural Style: Gothic Revival

Size: Approximately 4 acres

Entrance Arch: Ornate ironwork archway

Above Ground Tombs: Over 1,000 tombs
6

12
votes
Mark Gstohl · CC BY 2.0

Holt Cemetery

This cemetery is unique in that it is maintained by the families of those buried there, rather than by a formal organization. It is known for its colorful and eclectic decorations.
Holt Cemetery is a historic and unique cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is known for its somber beauty and authentic representation of New Orleans' rich history and culture. The cemetery has a distinct charm and atmosphere that sets it apart from other cemeteries in the city.

Established: 1879

Design: Simple, traditional burial ground

Type: Public cemetery

Size: Approximately 2 acres

Burial Practices: Primarily below-ground interments
7

3
votes
Infrogmation of New Orleans · CC BY-SA 3.0

Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery

This cemetery is the final resting place of many African American Civil War veterans, as well as other notable figures in New Orleans' history. It features ornate tombs and a historic chapel.
Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is renowned for its serene and beautiful setting, attracting visitors who appreciate the tranquility and history it offers. The cemetery holds a significant place in the city's cultural heritage, demonstrating distinct architectural elements and designs that reflect the Victorian era's taste. With its meticulously maintained landscape, ornate tombs, and unique grave markers, Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery presents a serene and reflective environment for visitors to explore and pay respects to the departed.

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Architectural Style: Victorian

Landscape: Meticulously maintained

Features: Ornate tombs and unique grave markers

Historical Significance: Cultural heritage of New Orleans
8

9
votes
Cephas · CC BY-SA 4.0

St. Patrick Cemetery No. 1

This cemetery is located in the historic Irish Channel neighborhood and features elaborate tombs and monuments. It is the final resting place of many Irish immigrants and their descendants.
St. Patrick Cemetery No. 1 is an exceptionally beautiful cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is known for its hauntingly serene atmosphere and stunning architectural features. The cemetery exudes a sense of history and reverence, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Established: 1833

Size: Approximately 12 acres

Architectural Style: Gothic Revival and Greek Revival

Grave Types: In-ground burials, above-ground tombs, and mausoleums
9

7
votes
Cypress Grove Cemetery

This cemetery is known for its beautiful oak trees and peaceful atmosphere. It features both above-ground tombs and traditional gravesites.
Cypress Grove Cemetery is a serene and captivating cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, intricate tomb architecture, and its historical significance. The cemetery provides a tranquil resting place for the departed and a peaceful environment for visitors to reflect and appreciate the beauty of the area.

Size: Cypress Grove Cemetery covers an area of approximately 35 acres.

Tree Variety: The cemetery is abundantly adorned with majestic cypress trees, giving it a unique and ethereal ambiance.

Tomb Styles: The cemetery features a diverse range of tomb styles, including grand mausoleums, ornate monuments, and elaborate ironwork.

Historical Importance: Many notable individuals from New Orleans' history are buried in Cypress Grove Cemetery, including politicians, entrepreneurs, and cultural icons.

Gardens: The cemetery boasts meticulously maintained gardens, with vibrant flowers and plants adding color and life to the serene atmosphere.
10

6
votes
Hebrew Rest Cemetery No. 1

This cemetery is the final resting place of many prominent members of New Orleans' Jewish community. It features ornate tombs and a historic chapel.
Hebrew Rest Cemetery No. 1 is a renowned cemetery located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the city, known for its historic significance and stunning architecture.

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Established: 1846

Size: Approximately 1 acre

Architecture Style: Greek Revival

Notable Features: Ornate ironwork, marble and granite tombstones

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Discussion

Ranking factors for beautiful cemetery

Landscape and Architecture

The overall layout, design, and landscaping of the cemetery, including architectural features like tombs, mausoleums, and sculptures, are essential factors to consider. A beautiful cemetery should have a harmonious combination of nature and human-made elements.
Historical Significance

Pay attention to the historical importance of the cemetery, including the stories of the people buried there, the age of the cemetery, and any significant events that took place in or around the cemetery. A cemetery's historical background could add to its beauty and appeal.
Preservation and Maintenance

A well-maintained cemetery with clean, well-preserved graves and tombstones is more visually appealing. Look for cemeteries that have ongoing preservation efforts and regular maintenance.
Atmosphere

A beautiful cemetery should evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. Consider the overall atmosphere of the cemetery, including factors like lighting, noise levels from nearby traffic, and the general condition of the surrounding neighborhood.
Vegetation and Wildlife

Consider the natural elements of the cemetery, including the diversity and condition of trees, flowers, and lawns, as well as the presence of local wildlife. A beautiful cemetery should be a haven for various plant species and animals.
Artistic Features

The presence of unique and artistic tombstones, sculptures, and other artistic elements can make a cemetery more visually appealing and memorable.
Visitor Amenities

A beautiful cemetery should be visitor-friendly, with amenities such as benches, restrooms, water fountains, and shaded areas for relaxation and reflection.
Accessibility

Ease of access to the cemetery, including parking facilities and well-maintained pathways, will enhance the overall visitor experience.
Popularity and Reputation

While this factor is somewhat subjective, the popularity and reputation of a cemetery can be an indication of its beauty. Cemeteries that are frequently visited or highly recommended by locals and tourists alike are likely to be standouts in terms of beauty.
Uniqueness

A truly beautiful cemetery will have features and characteristics that set it apart from other cemeteries, making it an unforgettable and distinctive destination.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful cemetery in New Orleans. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Graveyard is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1523 views
205 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Graveyard once every 24 hours. The rank of each Graveyard is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful cemetery in new orleans

New Orleans is known for its rich and unique culture, and one aspect of that culture is its cemeteries. Due to the city's high water table, many of the graves are above ground, creating a hauntingly beautiful landscape. In fact, some of the city's cemeteries have become popular tourist attractions. From the ornate tombs in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, to the hauntingly beautiful statues and memorials in Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, there are plenty of options for those looking to explore the beauty and history of New Orleans' cemeteries. But which one is the most beautiful? That's up to you to decide.