Père Lachaise Cemetery
Île-de-France
Père Lachaise Cemetery, located in Paris's 20th arrondissement, is the largest cemetery within the city limits and one of the most renowned worldwide. Established in the early 19th century, it spans 44 hectares and contains over 70,000 burial sites, including many notable figures from arts, literature, music, and politics. The cemetery is named after Father François d'Aix de La Chaise, confessor to King Louis XIV, whose former residence once stood on the grounds. It features a neoclassical monumental main entrance designed by architect Étienne-Hippolyte Godde, adorned with symbolic sculptures and biblical inscriptions. The cemetery is not only a place of remembrance but also a cultural landmark, attracting nearly 3.5 million visitors annually who explore its romantic monuments, elaborate tombs, and lush greenery. Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, it remains an active burial site hosting thousands of funerary ceremonies each year. Visitors can access the cemetery through five main gates, each served by nearby Paris Métro stations, facilitating easy entry. The site is celebrated for its artistic heritage, serene ambiance, and as the final resting place of iconic personalities such as Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, and Frédéric Chopin, making it a unique blend of history, art, and memory.
Naplánujte si cestu do země Francie s AI
Vytvořte si podrobný itinerář za pár minut. AI vám navrhne nejlepší místa, restaurace a optimalizovanou trasu.
Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during daylight hours when the cemetery is open, as entrance is free but the site is not a typical park and requires respectful behavior. Utilize the official interactive map available online for locating notable graves and facilities. Several entrances are accessible via Paris Métro lines 2 and 3, with the Père Lachaise station providing direct access. Booking guided tours or downloading maps in advance can enhance the experience. Avoid visiting during funerary ceremonies to maintain decorum. The cemetery is best explored on foot, allowing time to appreciate the sculptures and historic tombs.
Zajímavosti
- •Père Lachaise is the most visited cemetery in the world, welcoming over 3 million visitors annually.
- •The cemetery contains more than 70,000 graves, including those of famous figures like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Édith Piaf.
- •The main entrance was designed by Étienne-Hippolyte Godde in a neoclassical style and inaugurated in 1825.
- •The cemetery is still active, hosting nearly 10,000 funerary ceremonies each year.
- •It features approximately 15 kilometers of walkways lined with elaborate tombs and monuments.
Historie
Originally a wooded hill called Mont-Louis, the site was acquired by the Jesuits in the 17th century and named after Father François d'Aix de La Chaise, the confessor of Louis XIV.
After the closure of Paris's inner-city cemeteries in the late 18th century, the city established Père Lachaise in 1804 to provide a new burial ground outside the dense urban area.
Its initial poor popularity was reversed when the remains of famous individuals were transferred there, attracting public interest.
Over the centuries, the cemetery expanded and evolved into a cultural and historical landmark, preserving the memory of many famous personalities and reflecting Parisian history.
Průvodce po místě
Main Entrance1825
The monumental neoclassical main entrance on Boulevard de Ménilmontant, designed by Étienne-Hippolyte Godde, features symbolic sculptures such as winged hourglasses and biblical inscriptions, setting a solemn tone for visitors.
Oscar Wilde's Tomb1897 (death)
An iconic tomb marked by a modern angel sculpture and covered with colorful mosaic tiles, it attracts many visitors who leave tokens and lipstick kisses as a tribute to the famed Irish writer and poet.
Jim Morrison's Grave1971 (death)
The resting place of the legendary Doors frontman, marked by a simple stone slab and often surrounded by fans paying homage with flowers and graffiti.
Édith Piaf's Tomb1963 (death)
The grave of the celebrated French chanteuse, modest yet visited by many who admire her contribution to French music and culture.
Kontakt
Telefon: 01 55 25 82 10
