Père Lachaise Cemetery: Paris' Iconic City of the Dead

Nestled in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest and most visited necropolis in the French capital. This sprawling 110-acre (44-hectare) park-like cemetery is not only a final resting place for the deceased but also a cultural landmark and open-air museum.

The History of Père Lachaise Cemetery

  • Established in 1804 by Napoleon Bonaparte
  • Named after François d'Aix de La Chaise, confessor to King Louis XIV
  • Initially unpopular due to its distance from the city center
  • Gained popularity after the transfer of famous remains in 1817
  • Now home to over 70,000 burial plots
Père Lachaise Cemetery - Paris,France

Notable People Buried at Père Lachaise

1. Writers and Artists:

  • Oscar Wilde
  • Honoré de Balzac
  • Marcel Proust
  • Molière
  • Eugène Delacroix


2. Musicians:

  • Frédéric Chopin
  • Jim Morrison
  • Édith Piaf


3. Political Figures:

  • Georges Haussmann
  • Imre Nagy


4. Other Notable Figures:

  • Sarah Bernhardt
  • Allan Kardec
  • Héloïse and Abélard

Must-See Memorials and Monuments

  1. The Communards' Wall (Mur des Fédérés)
  2. Monuments to Holocaust victims
  3. War memorials for various nations

Visitor Information

1. Opening Hours:

  • November to March: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
  • March to November: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

 

2. Admission: Free

 

3. Nearest Metro Stations:

  • Père Lachaise (Lines 2 and 3)
  • Philippe Auguste (Line 2)
  • Gambetta (Line 3)

 

4. Guided Tours:

  • Available from various tour operators
  • Self-guided tours possible with maps available at entrances

 

5. Tips for Visitors:

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring water, especially in summer
  • Be respectful of mourners and ongoing funerals
  • Photography is allowed, but be mindful of privacy
Père Lachaise Metro Station (Lines 2 and 3) - Paris, France

Why Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery?

  1. Historical Significance: Explore over two centuries of Parisian history
  2. Artistic Value: Admire stunning funerary art and architecture
  3. Celebrity Appeal: Visit the graves of world-famous personalities
  4. Peaceful Retreat: Enjoy a serene escape from the bustling city

Planning Your Visit

  1. Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
  2. Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit
  3. Combine With: Nearby attractions like Belleville Park or the Edith Piaf Museum

 

Père Lachaise Cemetery offers a unique blend of history, art, and tranquility in the heart of Paris. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this iconic necropolis provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the City of Light.