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Writer's pictureChristine Childress

Off-The-Beaten-Path In Paris: Père Lachaise Cemetery


Memorial to the dead in Père Lachaise Cemetery

Wander through ornate tombs and graves of iconic figures from Oscar Wilde to Jim Morrison at Paris’ famed hillside necropolis.


Why Visit: Pay respects to brilliant creative minds at their final resting places within a serene urban forest.


For Those Who: Appreciate cemetery art and symbolism, want to visit famous historical tombs and memorials, and value nature’s beauty alongside monuments.


Covering over 100 acres, Père Lachaise is Paris’ largest cemetery and an open-air museum to the city’s most celebrated citizens. Winding cobblestone paths lead visitors past the elaborate tombs of cultural icons from Chopin to Callas to Modigliani sheltered beneath mature trees.


See Wilde’s winged sphinx, Proust’s Grecian monument, and the graves of legendary medieval lovers Héloïse and Abélard. Leave a memento at Jim Morrison’s constantly guarded site. The elaborate memorial art and architecture provide insights into the style of each era. Feel peaceful solitude amongst legends.


Beyond the famous occupants, the cemetery’s arboretum-like setting with diverse plants and wildlife provides a tranquil escape from the city. Linger along the cemetery’s highest point to take in panoramic views of Paris—a perfect spot for quiet contemplation accessible to all.


What You Need to Know: Père Lachaise is located in the 20th arrondissement with several Metro stops nearby. The cemetery grounds are open daily 8 am-6 pm (8:30 pm in summer).



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