St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 was established via a Royal Spanish Land Grant in 1789. It was originally outside the city limits, and was at least twice its current size. The Archdiocese of New Orleans now has control of this cemetery. Currently the only way you can get into the cemetery is with a licensed tour guide. Unfortunately vandalism has forced this action. This cemetery was definitely on our list of things to “be sure to see” when we visited New Orleans in January, 2018.
Multiple designs for the tombs, some fancy and some plain
The famed above ground tombs and wall tombs are designed for use by generation after generation. Many of the tombs are owned by individual families. Some of the very large tombs are known as society tombs where several families or groups have combined resources. The laws dictate that a year and a day passes before an additional burial is permitted. As you would expect, there are many well-known, famous and infamous people whose tombs are located in the cemetery.
We are standing in front of the tomb of Marie Laveau, the famed Voodoo Queen. This is reportedly the most visited tomb in New Orleans.
We decided to go on a St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and Voodoo tour put on by the Gray Line. Marcia, our tour guide, was a delightful host of our small group. As mentioned above, you must be with a licensed tour guide to gain entrance into the cemetery. Shop around, but we suggest going with the Gray Line Tour Company.
Plaque on the tomb of Marie Laveau, the most famous voodoo Priestess from New Orleans
Nicholas Cage had this tomb built in the cemetery. He says he wants to be buried here, and the IRS cannot touch a burial plot. We were told that Cage visited the tomb a year ago with his brother.
Not all tombs are as well maintained as others.
Multiple generations of the same family interred in a wall tomb.
Roadtirement 
Interesting cemetery to wander around in.
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Definitely had varied feelings walking through this historic burial ground.
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I love New Orleans, but my husband is so not a fan. Thanks for taking me along on this trip.
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Glad you could join us!
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Rooster and I love to visit New Orleans. The cemeteries are awesome.
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Sher and I agree that of all of the places we’ve visited, NOLA is our favorite. We do want to go back someday…
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We were scheduled to go in April in 2019. We didn’t make the trip because of COVID.
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COVID messed up so many plans. Have you rescheduled a trip on the books?
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We haven’t decided when we will go back again, but we are getting the urge.
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Hope that urge gets fulfilled soon for you and Rooster!
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Like you, we love old cemeteries and that’s a good one!
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It’s a shame you can’t just wander at will anymore, but understand why it needs to be controlled. And yes, we love old cemeteries as well. 😉
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