St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Overview

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the oldest existing cemetery in New Orleans, famous for its above-ground tombs, voodoo history, and the tomb attributed to Marie Laveau. Visits require a licensed tour guide.

Highlights

• Marie Laveau's Tomb: The alleged resting place of the voodoo queen.
• Above-Ground Tombs: Elaborate whitewashed crypts called "Cities of the Dead."
• Notable Burials: Chess champion Paul Morphy and Homer Plessy of Plessy v. Ferguson.

History

Opened in 1789, the cemetery holds the remains of many early New Orleans families. The requirement for above-ground burial arose from the city's high water table.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: You must book a licensed tour guide — unescorted visits are prohibited.
• Tip 2: Tours run daily and last about one hour.
• Duration: 1 hour.