St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Nestled in the heart of New Orleans, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is not just a burial ground—it’s a living, breathing time capsule that whispers the stories of a city steeped in history, mystery, and vibrant culture. Known as one of the most famous cemeteries in the world, this iconic "City of the Dead" invites visitors to wander through its narrow pathways, flanked by ornate, above-ground tombs that are as artistic as they are eerie. As you step through its wrought-iron gates, the cemetery feels alive with stories of love, tragedy, folklore, and resilience. The air hums with the weight of centuries-old secrets, and each tomb seems to carry an untold tale, etched into its weathered stone. 

 

Whether you're a history buff, a lover of the macabre, or simply curious about the soul of New Orleans, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 promises an unforgettable adventure into the past—and maybe even a brush with the supernatural. Welcome to a place where life and death intertwine, creating a spellbinding experience unlike any other!

 

 

Entry Ticket 

The tour to the cemetery is only offered by Cemetery Tours New Orleans. The official guided walking tours of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 are priced as follows:

Adults (13 to 64): $25

Seniors (65+): $23

Child (3-12): $18

Infant (Under 3): Free

Military Personnel: $23

 

These tours are conducted by Cemetery Tours NOLA, the official tour provider in partnership with New Orleans Catholic Cemeteries. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance, either online or at the Cemetery Tour Desk located in the Basin St. Station Visitor Information Center at 501 Basin Street. Please note that tour sizes are limited, so securing your tickets ahead of time is recommended.

 

Parking 

Parking is available near St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 at the ‘Park First Parking Lot’, located adjacent to both Basin St. Station and the cemetery, offering convenient and affordable parking with rates ranging from $5 to $10 for 10 hours year-round.

Please note that the Basin St. Station Visitor Parking Lot is reserved for temporary 20-minute visitor parking only and is not intended for parking during your cemetery tour. For longer stays, use the Park First lot to avoid any issues.

 

Accessibility 

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is generally accessible, though there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. The pathways within the cemetery are mostly flat, which makes them navigable for wheelchairs and strollers. Official guided tours are also designed to be inclusive, and many tour providers aim to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.

 

That said, the cemetery’s historic nature means some areas may have uneven surfaces or narrow walkways, which could pose challenges for those with limited mobility. Additionally, while there are no restroom facilities inside the cemetery itself, nearby Basin St. Station offers public restrooms, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly before your visit.

 

History of the St Louis Cemetery No 1

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, established in 1789, is more than just the oldest cemetery in New Orleans—it’s a living chronicle of the city’s resilience, culture, and rich history. Nestled near the heart of the city, this iconic burial ground emerged from the ashes of calamity. In 1788, New Orleans faced a triple threat: a catastrophic fire, a deadly epidemic, and an overwhelmed burial ground on St. Peter Street. Concerned about disease outbreaks, city officials acted swiftly, closing the old cemetery and establishing a new one outside the city’s fortified walls.

 

The chosen site was a modest 300-square-foot patch of marshy land near Charity Hospital. At first, it was surrounded by a simple picket fence, but as burials began almost immediately, it became clear that this “temporary” cemetery would endure. On August 14, 1789, a Spanish royal decree confirmed its permanence, marking the beginning of its transformation into the celebrated site we know today.

 

In its early years, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 followed traditional in-ground burial practices. But the city’s low elevation and high water table created a gruesome problem—coffins frequently floated to the surface after heavy rains. In 1803, a city ordinance was passed requiring above-ground tombs. While not strictly enforced at first, this approach quickly became the norm, blending practical necessity with European architectural influences. Today, these striking tombs are synonymous with New Orleans’ cemeteries, often called "Cities of the Dead."

 

As New Orleans grew, so did the cemetery. Its original footprint expanded, eventually pushing against the city’s ramparts. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and the influx of refugees from the Haitian Revolution (1791–1804) brought waves of new residents and diverse cultural traditions. To accommodate these changes, the cemetery was divided into distinct sections: a Protestant burial ground, space for African Americans and people of color, and Catholic interments.

 

The Protestant section, managed by Christ Church starting in 1805, reflected the city’s growing Protestant population. However, by 1832, urban development altered the landscape yet again. Plans to extend streets like Conti and Treme forced the relocation of graves within the cemetery’s footprint. By 1838, many Protestant burials had been moved to the Girod Street Cemetery, and much of the original Protestant section was sold as building lots.

 

The cemetery’s evolution continued in 1847 when a portion near St. Louis Street was relinquished to the city for urban improvements. As remains were carefully relocated to nearby vaults or family tombs, the cemetery adapted to the ever-changing needs of a bustling city.

 

Fast forward to modern times, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a beacon of cultural and historical significance. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, it’s recognized for its unique blend of art and architecture. In 2008, it earned a spot on Louisiana’s African American Heritage Trail, honoring the many notable African Americans laid to rest here.

 

Today, efforts to preserve this historic treasure are led by New Orleans Catholic Cemeteries through the Abandoned Tomb Initiative. This project restores tombs using historically accurate methods, funded by tourism and generous donors.

 

Walking through St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is like stepping back in time. Every tomb tells a story of love, loss, and legacy in a city that never stops celebrating its vibrant culture. It’s not just a cemetery—it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of New Orleans.

 

Key Highlights of the Cemetery

 

A Portal to New Orleans’ Rich History

Walking into the cemetery feels like stepping back in time. It’s the oldest and most famous cemetery in New Orleans, and its creation was born out of necessity. After devastating fires and the realization that below-ground burial was unsuitable due to the city's high water table, the concept of above-ground tombs became a defining feature. Each tomb tells a story, not only of those buried but of the city’s resilience and ingenuity.

 

A Tapestry of Unique Tomb Architecture

The tombs in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 are remarkable works of art. Featuring ornate designs, wrought iron accents, and detailed carvings, each tomb reflects the artistry of the period and the personal wealth of the deceased. Some of the tombs are family vaults, while others serve as communal resting places, known as "society tombs," built by organizations such as the French Benevolent Society. The intricate craftsmanship of these structures leaves visitors in awe, creating a hauntingly beautiful sight.

 

Resting Place of Notable Figures

Among its narrow pathways and tightly packed tombs lie the remains of some of New Orleans’ most prominent figures. One of the most famous is Marie Laveau, the legendary "Voodoo Queen" of New Orleans. Her tomb attracts visitors from around the world, who leave offerings and draw X marks in hopes of receiving her blessings. Though her true burial site is a matter of speculation, her legend continues to cast a spell over the cemetery.

 

Another notable tomb belongs to Homer Plessy, the civil rights activist whose landmark case, Plessy v. Ferguson, defined American segregation laws for decades. The presence of such figures connects visitors to pivotal moments in history and the cultural evolution of New Orleans.

 

A Connection to Voodoo Culture

New Orleans is synonymous with Voodoo, and St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is its spiritual epicenter. Beyond Marie Laveau’s tomb, the cemetery houses numerous graves tied to the city’s Voodoo history. Guided tours often delve into the links between these burial practices and the Voodoo religion, explaining how African spiritual traditions merged with Catholic rituals to create something uniquely Creole. The offerings left at certain gravesites—candles, beads, and even chicken bones—are a vivid reminder of these deeply rooted cultural beliefs.

 

The Nickname "Cities of the Dead”

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 earned the nickname of "Cities of the Dead" by famed author Mark Twain, due to its unique layout. The tightly packed above-ground tombs resemble small houses, creating a miniature cityscape. This design reflects the necessity of coping with New Orleans’ high water table, but it also imbues the cemetery with an architectural charm that captures the imagination. The narrow pathways and distinct “neighborhoods” within the cemetery make it feel like a parallel world frozen in time.

 

A Hollywood Favorite

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 has not only captivated historians and tourists but also Hollywood filmmakers. Its haunting beauty and mysterious aura have made it a prime location for movies and TV shows set in New Orleans. Productions like Easy Rider have filmed memorable scenes within its walls, further solidifying its reputation as a cultural and cinematic icon. Visitors who are also film enthusiasts often recognize locations from their favorite movies, adding another layer of intrigue to their visit.

 

The Mysteries and Supernatural Lore

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is steeped in mystery, and its reputation for being one of the most haunted places in America only adds to its allure. Many visitors report eerie encounters, such as ghostly figures and unexplained sensations. Some say the restless spirits of those buried there still wander the grounds. The tales of ghostly apparitions, particularly that of Marie Laveau herself, give the cemetery an otherworldly charm that has captivated paranormal enthusiasts for generations.

 

A Site of Cultural Significance

The cemetery is not just a burial site but a testament to the city’s multicultural roots. It reflects the blend of French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences that define New Orleans. The above-ground tombs mimic styles seen in European cemeteries, but they are uniquely adapted to the city's environment. The cemetery also showcases the traditions of the Creole community, with its vibrant practices and respect for the deceased.

 

The Tomb That Defies Time

One of the more curious sights in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a modern pyramid-shaped tomb that stands in stark contrast to the historical surroundings. Purchased by actor Nicolas Cage, this futuristic tomb carries the inscription Omnia Ab Uno—Latin for "Everything From One." While its purpose is still a matter of intrigue, its presence demonstrates the cemetery's ongoing relevance and connection to contemporary figures.

 

Seasonal Celebrations and Memorials

Throughout the year, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 becomes a focal point for traditional celebrations and remembrances. On All Saints’ Day, families gather to clean and decorate graves, honoring their ancestors with flowers and prayers. This event provides a vibrant glimpse into the enduring customs surrounding death and remembrance in New Orleans. For visitors lucky enough to witness it, the experience is both moving and culturally enlightening.

 

A Photographer’s Dream

For those with a passion for photography, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 offers countless opportunities to capture stunning images. The weathered tombs, intricate ironwork, and play of light and shadow create scenes that feel almost otherworldly. Every corner of the cemetery seems to hold a perfect shot, making it a favorite destination for artists and photographers seeking to immortalize its unique beauty.

 

An Unforgettable Experience

A visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is not just a tour—it’s an immersive experience. The labyrinthine pathways, atmospheric ambiance, and sense of timelessness leave a profound impression on every visitor. Whether you’re exploring the lives of its notable residents, marveling at the artistry of its tombs, or soaking in the aura of mystique, this cemetery offers a glimpse into the soul of New Orleans.

 

Plan Your Visit Today!

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 isn’t just a burial ground—it’s a journey into the soul of New Orleans, where history, mystery, and culture come alive. From its ornate above-ground tombs to the legends that rest within its walls, this iconic cemetery offers an unforgettable glimpse into the past. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of folklore, or simply looking for a unique adventure, a visit to this "City of the Dead" is an absolute must. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in one of New Orleans' most fascinating landmarks. Don’t forget to bring your curiosity, your camera, and maybe even a little courage—because here, the stories never rest.