LIST: World’s most stunning cemeteries to visit

Yes, that’s right. Though it may be hard to think of a cemetery as beautiful, there are a number of cemeteries that attract millions of visitors every year.

In some instances, cemeteries are included on the list of places to visit by many tourists that travel to certain destinations.

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VISITING CEMETERIES

Most cemeteries are not usually places one would visit for recreational purposes but there are several cemeteries across the globe that draw large crowds.

Cemeteries are thought to be peaceful places that invite contemplation and solemnity but some, however, attract throngs of visitors because they house the graves of famous people, occupy a special location, or feature historical architecture.

PLACES OF BEAUTY

Here’s a list of the world’s most remarkable and most frequented graveyards. They are places to view historic architecture, make religious pilgrimages, pay homage to the dead and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

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1. MOUNT OF OLIVES JEWISH CEMETERY (ISRAEL)

This huge cemetery is located in Jerusalem, Israel. It overlooks the Old City of Jerusalem, affording visitors spectacular views of the centre.

References to the Mount of Olives in the Bible have made this graveyard extremely popular. The Mount of Olives is the oldest Jewish Cemetery in the world.

2. PÈRE-LACHAISE CEMETERY (FRANCE)

This famous cemetery situated in the French capital is the world’s most frequented burial site, with more than three million visitors each year.

A number of celebrities are buried there, including Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf, and the famous singer of the famous musical group The Doors, Jim Morrison. As one of Paris’ biggest green spaces, Père-Lachaise is perfect for strolling.

3. OLD JEWISH CEMETERY (CZECH REPUBLIC)

Czech Republic’s capital, Prague was home to a thriving Jewish community up to World War 2. The city boasts one of Europe’s oldest recorded Jewish communities.

Found in the heart of the old city, crowded headstones are located among overgrown vegetation which gives this cemetery an enchanted atmosphere.

This cemetery is one of Prague’s tourist attractions. It is administered by the city’s Jewish Museum.

4. SKOGSKYRKOGÅRDEN (SWEDEN)

As with most things in Sweden, nature is an important element in this “cemetery” which appears more like a forest dotted with gravestones, than a traditional cemetery.

This graveyard located in Stockholm exists in harmony with the environment. Construction of Sweden’s Skogskyrkogården began in 1917.

In 1994 it was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today the cemetery is a tourist attraction.

5. ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY (USA)

Located near Washing D.C. in the United States Arlington National Cemetery is home to thousands of headstones. It is where former US President John F. Kennedy is buried.

This graveyard is home to many military graves and often hosts military ceremonies. Arlington is a peaceful and pleasant place for walking.

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6. CALVARY CEMETERY (USA)

Located in the New York City borough of Queens, Calvary Cemetery is one of the largest and oldest cemeteries in the United States.

A number of actors, military heroes, and other celebrities are buried here. The graveyard offers splendid views of Manhattan’s skyline.

7. RECOLETA CEMETERY (ARGENTINA)

Argentina’s famed Recoleta cemetery is located in the capital, Buenos Aires.

Recoleta is home to more than 4 600 graves, including that of Argentine actress and politician Eva (Evita) Peron.

Almost one hundred of the tombs in Recoleta are classified as national historical monuments according to Espresso.

8. WAVERLEY CEMETERY (AUSTRALIA)

This scenic cemetery located in Bronte; a suburb of Sydney, Australia is very impressive.

Built on a cliff, overlooking the sea, this burial site offers magnificent views. Visitors can take in panoramic views over the South Pacific as they stroll through the large 17-hectare cemetery.

Waverley Cemetery in Sydney offers panoramic views over the South Pacific. Image: Lorne Philpot

This article was originally published by Lorne Philpot.