Saint Louis Cemetery, Catholic cemetery in French Quarter, New Orleans, United States
Saint Louis Cemetery is a burial ground in New Orleans featuring white stone above-ground tombs arranged in rows across multiple pathways and sections. The graves form a structured grid pattern that extends throughout the grounds.
The cemetery was founded in 1789 as the primary burial ground for New Orleans during the colonial period. It contains graves spanning from that era through modern times, reflecting the city's long history.
The cemetery reflects French, Spanish, and African American burial customs through the architectural styles and decorations visible on family tombs. These varied designs show how different communities have coexisted and honored their dead over time.
Visiting requires joining an official guided tour, which starts from the Basin Street Station visitor center and provides historical context. Tours follow set routes to protect the graves and pathways throughout the grounds.
One white tomb on the grounds attracts special attention as visitors leave marks and objects there, following a local custom. This practice shows how people continue to honor and interact with places in their own meaningful ways.
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