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Lafayette Cemetery: New Orleans' most infamous above-ground cemetery

Why Lafayette Cemetery is so famous

Lafayette Cemetery is one of the most iconic and historically significant burial grounds in New Orleans. Established in 1833, it stands out for its distinctive above-ground tombs, a unique practice shaped by the city’s high water table. The cemetery’s intricate family vaults, wrought-iron fences, and timeworn marble epitaphs reflect the city’s multicultural heritage, with many tombs belonging to Irish, German, and Creole families.

What truly makes Lafayette Cemetery famous is how it blends history, architecture, and legend. It has served as a backdrop for numerous films, novels, and TV series, giving it a pop-culture mystique. Unlike some cemeteries that feel forgotten, Lafayette exudes a quiet, haunting beauty that draws in history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. It’s also rumored to be one of the more spiritually active sites in the city, often featured on ghost and history tours. This balance of fact, folklore, and architectural charm is what keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Did you know?

  • Opened in 1833, it was the city’s first planned, non-denominational cemetery, welcoming people of all faiths.
  • The cemetery was named in honor of Marquis de Lafayette, the French general who fought in the American Revolution.
  • Many tombs were built by ethnic or fraternal societies, like the German and Irish immigrant associations, reflecting the city’s cultural diversity.
  • Each vault can house multiple generations because the hot, humid climate accelerates decomposition, making room for new burials in the same tomb.
  • The cemetery has been featured in films like Interview with the Vampire and Double Jeopardy, adding to its global fame.
  • Despite yellow fever outbreaks and hurricanes, many original tombs remain intact.
  • Known for eerie silence and reported paranormal activity, it’s a frequent stop on ghost tours.
  • Though closed to the general public since 2019 for preservation, it remains an active burial site for some families.

Can I visit Lafayette Cemetery?

Currently, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is closed to the public for maintenance and preservation work, so visitors can’t enter the grounds. However, you can still admire its historic tombs and haunting beauty from the outside; many walking tours pass by the perimeter, offering great views and fascinating stories.

Practical information

  • Location: Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, 1416-1524 Washington Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70130, located in the historic Garden District.
  • Hours: Access is generally through guided tours only. Tour times vary by operator, typically between 10am – 6pm; evening or ghost tours may run later.
  • Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for photography and cooler temperatures; dusk or night tours offer a more atmospheric, haunted experience.
  • Accessibility: Some guided tours can accommodate wheelchairs or strollers, but cobblestone paths and narrow aisles may pose challenges. Always confirm with your tour operator in advance.
  • Facilities nearby: Cafés, restaurants, and streetcar stops are within walking distance. Public restrooms are available in nearby commercial areas and at select tour starting points.

Etiquette & tips for visitors

  • Do not touch, sit, or lean on tombs and monuments; many are centuries old.
  • Flash or tripods may be restricted; always follow your guide’s instructions.
  • Speak softly to preserve the cemetery’s peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
  • Comfortable shoes for uneven paths; modest attire shows respect for a burial site.
  • Cobblestones and narrow walkways can be tricky; watch your step.
  • Morning tours are cooler and quieter; evening tours provide a spookier ambiance.
  • Eating or drinking inside the cemetery is prohibited.

Notable burials in Lafayette Cemetery

Charles Deakin (1837–1865)

Awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the American Civil War. Recognized for his valor and service.

Matthew McClelland (1832–1883)

Medal of Honor recipient honored for his distinguished contributions in the military, particularly during the Civil War era.

Edward B. Young (1835–1867)

Earned the Medal of Honor, commemorating his heroic deeds and commitment during wartime.

Frequently asked questions about Lafayette Cemetery

Are there any active burials?

Yes, some family vaults are still used, though public access is restricted.

Is photography allowed after dark?

Evening tours may allow photography, but flash and tripods are often restricted.

Which tombs are considered the most haunted?

Older family vaults near the center and certain society tombs are hotspots for reported paranormal activity.

Can I visit alone or without a guide?

No, independent access is prohibited to protect the site and preserve safety.

Are there any unique architectural features I should look for?

Yes, wrought-iron fences, marble carvings, and society emblems are distinctive and worth noting.

How does Lafayette Cemetery reflect New Orleans’ cultural diversity?

Tomb inscriptions, designs, and society vaults showcase Irish, German, Italian, and Creole heritage.

Are there any notable film locations within the cemetery?

Sections of the cemetery were featured in Interview with the Vampire and other films, adding to its cultural significance.

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