St Louis Cemetery No 1 Self Guided Tour
St Louis Cemetery No 1 is one of the oldest and most acclaimed cemeteries in New Orleans, Louisiana. It was established in 1789 and has become a popular tourist destination, with its unique above-ground tombs and rich history. If you're planning a trip to New Orleans, be sure to add St Louis Cemetery No 1 to your itinerary and take a self guided tour to fully appreciate its beauty and significance.
History of St Louis Cemetery No 1
St Louis Cemetery No 1 has a long and fascinating history, with many notable figures buried within its walls. It served as the primary cemetery for New Orleans until the mid-19th century, when a yellow fever epidemic forced the city to establish new cemeteries outside of the city limits. Some of the most famous burials in St Louis Cemetery No 1 include Marie Laveau, the "Voodoo Queen" of New Orleans, and Homer Plessy, the plaintiff in the landmark Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson. Many of the tombs in the cemetery are above ground, due to the high water table in New Orleans.
Self Guided Tour of St Louis Cemetery No 1
While there are organized tours available of St Louis Cemetery No 1, taking a self guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace and take in the beauty and history of the cemetery on your own terms. Before you begin your tour, be sure to stop by the entrance and pick up a map to help guide you through the cemetery. Take your time and explore the different sections of the cemetery - you never know what treasures you might discover. And don't forget to bring your camera - there are plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs throughout the cemetery.
What to See on Your Self Guided Tour
St Louis Cemetery No 1 is home to a wide variety of tombs and monuments, each with their own unique stories and histories. Some of the most popular attractions in the cemetery include:
- The tomb of Marie Laveau, adorned with offerings and graffiti from visitors seeking her blessing
- The tomb of Homer Plessy, which is easily recognizable by its plaque detailing the landmark Supreme Court case
- The pyramid-shaped tomb of Nicolas Cage (yes, that Nicolas Cage)
- The tomb of the French architect Benjamin Latrobe, who designed the US Capitol building
- The "Wall of Tombs," which contains dozens of stacked tombs with a variety of intricate carvings and decorations
Tips for Your Self Guided Tour
When planning your self guided tour of St Louis Cemetery No 1, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable shoes - the cemetery is large, and you'll be doing a lot of walking
- Bring water and sunscreen - New Orleans can be hot and humid, even in the winter months
- Be respectful - St Louis Cemetery No 1 is a sacred site, and it's important to treat it with the respect it deserves
- Don't touch or deface the tombs - many of the tombs in St Louis Cemetery No 1 are fragile and irreplaceable, so it's important to be careful and avoid damaging them
Conclusion
St Louis Cemetery No 1 is a unique and beautiful destination in New Orleans, Louisiana, with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful and reflective setting, a self guided tour of St Louis Cemetery No 1 is sure to be a memorable experience. So the next time you're in New Orleans, be sure to add this iconic landmark to your to-do list.