Monday, June 04, 2007

Paris - Pere Lachaise Cemetery


On our last full day in Paris, I decided to venture into the 20th arrondissement to explore Pere Lachaise cemetery. Many people probably know that Jim Morrison is buried there even though hundreds of other well known people make this tranquil area their eternal home including Gertrude Stein, Edith Piaf and Oscar Wilde. I particularly like the story of Victor Noir's bronze statue at his grave site - I'll look for that one when I go back. The cemetery is easily found close by several metro stations and a map is located just inside the main gates. The cobblestone walkways were wide enough for vehicles since it continues to be an active burial area. The tombstones were so close in most areas that grass could not grow between them. Most were large, ornate tombstones with many designed as small palaces or other grand structures. I found Jim Morrison's site with little trouble....I left a book near his site that seemed to be rather appropriate...

Throughout the area were small parks with benches where people were reading, eating lunch or just having contemplative time. I plan to go back another time packing a lunch and having plenty of time to wander and take pictures.