Top 10 Things to Know About the Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise Cemetery, located in the heart of Paris, is the largest cemetery in the city and one of the most famous in the world. Established in 1804 by Napoleon Bonaparte, it spans over 110 acres and is the final resting place for over one million people. Renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, ornate tombs, and historic significance, Père Lachaise attracts millions of visitors each year.

The cemetery is home to the graves of many notable figures, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Édith Piaf. With its winding paths, ancient trees, and impressive monuments, Père Lachaise is not only a place of remembrance but also a cultural and historical landmark, offering a unique glimpse into Parisian history and art.

Note: I visited Paris, France, back in 2012!

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Where is Père Lachaise Cemetery?

Père Lachaise Cemetery is located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, France. The main entrance is situated at 16 Rue du Repos, and the cemetery is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest metro stations are Philippe Auguste (Line 2) and Père Lachaise (Lines 2 and 3), both within walking distance of the cemetery’s entrance.

10 Key Facts about Père Lachaise Cemetery

Established in 1804: The cemetery was opened by Napoleon Bonaparte as part of his reforms to create more hygienic burial practices in Paris.
Largest Cemetery in Paris: Spanning 110 acres, it is the largest cemetery within the city limits.
Over One Million Interments: Père Lachaise is the final resting place for over one million people, making it one of the most populous cemeteries in the world.
Notable Graves: The cemetery is home to the graves of many famous individuals, including writers Oscar Wilde and Marcel Proust, rock star Jim Morrison, and singer Édith Piaf.
Architectural Diversity: The cemetery features a wide range of tomb styles, from Gothic and Haussmannian to modernist and Art Nouveau.
Columbarium and Crematorium: Père Lachaise also houses a columbarium and one of the first crematoriums in France, built in 1889.
War Memorials: The cemetery contains several memorials dedicated to the victims of wars and the Holocaust.
Cultural Landmark: It is a protected historical monument and is often considered an open-air museum due to its rich artistic and historical heritage.
Visitor Attraction: Père Lachaise attracts millions of tourists annually, making it one of Paris’s most visited sites.
Famous Burial Transfers: To boost its popularity, the remains of notable figures like Molière and La Fontaine were transferred here shortly after its opening.