New Orleans Cemetery Insiders Tour: See Inside Our Cemeteries

Step into the shadows of New Orleans’ storied cemeteries with the captivating ‘New Orleans Cemetery Insiders Tour: See Inside Our Cemeteries.’ Led by a seasoned storyteller, this guided walking tour takes you on an immersive journey through three lesser-known burial grounds, where above-ground traditions and historic burial customs come to life.

But this tour is more than just a glimpse into the past; it’s a chance to pay tribute to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and other disasters that have shaped the city’s history. With tales of yellow fever outbreaks and a chance to bring your own drinks, this tour offers a unique and educational experience that will leave you wanting more.

Good To Know

• New Orleans Cemetery Insiders Tour explores three lesser-known cemeteries in the city.
• The tour provides insights into unique above-ground burial customs and historic burial traditions.
• Participants have the opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and other disasters.
• The impact of yellow fever outbreaks on the city’s history is also discussed during the tour.

Tour Overview: Explore New Orleans’ Lesser-Known Cemeteries

Set out on a captivating journey as you explore the intriguing world of New Orleans’ lesser-known cemeteries on the Cemetery Insiders Tour.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore three of the city’s lesser-known cemeteries and learn about the fascinating above-ground burial customs that make New Orleans’ cemeteries so unique.

As you walk through these historic burial grounds, you’ll gain insights into the city’s burial traditions and the impact of yellow fever outbreaks on the community.

One notable feature of this tour is the drinks policy, which allows you to bring your own drinks for the duration of the tour.

The meeting point for the tour is Gs Pizza on Bienville Street, where the tour starts and proceeds to the cemeteries.

The tour concludes near the Hurricane Katrina Memorial on Canal Street, providing a meaningful tribute to the victims of the disaster.

Unique Burial Customs: Above-Ground Traditions Revealed

As visitors step into the historic cemeteries of New Orleans, they’re immediately immersed in the unique above-ground burial customs that have shaped the city’s rich and storied history.

Unlike traditional burial practices, New Orleans has a long-standing tradition of burying their dead above ground. This practice, known as above-ground burial or entombment, is influenced by a combination of factors including the city’s high water table and the cultural significance of cemeteries in New Orleans.

The above-ground burial practices not only showcase the architectural beauty of the city’s cemeteries but also reflect the diverse cultural heritage of the people of New Orleans. These burial customs have become an integral part of the city’s identity and continue to be upheld to this day, making a visit to the cemeteries a truly unique and enlightening experience.

Paying Tribute: Remembering Hurricane Katrina and More

Visitors to the historic cemeteries of New Orleans not only witness the city’s unique above-ground burial customs but also have the opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and other significant events in the city’s history. These cemeteries serve as poignant reminders of the past, allowing visitors to reflect on the rich history and resilience of New Orleans. One notable event that is commemorated is Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the city in 2005. The significance of Hurricane Katrina is remembered through various memorials and dedications throughout the cemeteries. It serves as a reminder of the immense devastation caused by the storm and the strength and spirit of the community in rebuilding. The table below highlights some of the ways visitors can pay tribute and honor New Orleans’ history:

As visitors explore these historic cemeteries, they are encouraged to take a moment to reflect on the past and remember the resilience of the city and its people.

Historic Burial Traditions: Insights Into New Orleans’ Past

The historic cemeteries of New Orleans offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past burial traditions. Exploring these sacred grounds provides insights into mourning rituals and the cultural significance of cemetery architecture. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Above-ground Burial: One of the most distinctive features of New Orleans cemeteries is the prevalence of above-ground tombs and mausoleums. This tradition dates back to the city’s early days when the high water table made traditional underground burials impractical.

2. Ornate Monuments: The tombs in these cemeteries are often adorned with intricate designs, sculptures, and symbols. These elaborate monuments reflect the various cultural influences that shape New Orleans, including French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions.

3. Community Burial Practices: New Orleans cemeteries weren’t just places for individual burials. They served as gathering spaces for the community, where families would come together to mourn and remember their loved ones.

4. Voodoo and Spiritualism: New Orleans has a rich history of spiritual practices, including voodoo and spiritualism. Some tombs in the cemeteries are associated with these traditions, offering further insights into the city’s unique cultural tapestry.

Impact of Yellow Fever: Uncovering the City’s History

Yellow Fever has left an indelible mark on the history of New Orleans, shaping the city’s development and impacting its residents in profound ways. The city’s health history has been greatly influenced by the devastating yellow fever outbreaks that occurred throughout the 19th century.

These epidemics had a significant impact on the population, leading to massive death tolls and creating a public health crisis. The spread of yellow fever prompted the implementation of various measures to combat the disease, such as quarantine efforts and sanitation reforms.

The city’s response to these outbreaks also played a role in shaping its infrastructure and urban planning. Today, the impact of yellow fever can still be seen in the unique above-ground burial customs and the presence of historic cemeteries, serving as a reminder of the city’s tumultuous health history.

Common Questions

How Long Does the New Orleans Cemetery Insiders Tour Typically Last?

The New Orleans Cemetery Insiders Tour typically lasts for approximately 2 hours. The tour schedule includes visits to three lesser-known cemeteries, providing a unique opportunity to explore the city’s burial customs and pay tribute to its history.

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

Children are allowed on the tour, making it a family-friendly experience. Photography is also allowed, allowing visitors to capture the unique and historic sights of the cemeteries. It’s an educational and engaging adventure for all.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography rules and tour restrictions on the New Orleans Cemetery Insiders Tour are as follows: Photography is allowed during the tour, but there may be certain areas or specific gravesites where taking photos is prohibited.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Restroom facilities are available during the tour for convenience. The tour duration allows for breaks and time to use the facilities. Guests can rest assured knowing that their comfort is taken into consideration.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to explore the cemeteries. With a duration of one day, participants have ample time to discover the unique burial customs and pay tribute to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and other disasters.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, the New Orleans Cemetery Insiders Tour offers a captivating and educational experience for visitors looking to explore the rich history and unique burial customs of the city.

Led by a skilled storyteller, the tour takes you to lesser-known cemeteries, providing insights into above-ground traditions and the impact of yellow fever outbreaks.

With the opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and other disasters, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the historic burial traditions of New Orleans.