Overview of Metairie Cemetery
Metairie Cemetery, a National Register site, ranks among the world’s must-see cemeteries․ Explore lavish tombs and trees․
Historical Significance and National Recognition
Metairie Cemetery holds significant historical importance, securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places․ It frequently earns recognition as one of the world’s most remarkable cemeteries, drawing visitors from across the globe․ Its transformation from the Metairie Race Course in 1872, orchestrated by the Louisiana State Lottery’s principal owner after a jockey club snub, adds to its unique narrative․ The cemetery showcases not only stunning funerary art but also reflects the social and cultural history of New Orleans․ Its elaborate tombs and monuments serve as lasting tributes to the city’s influential figures and families, solidifying its legacy as a vital historical landmark․
Notable Figures Buried in Metairie Cemetery
Discover the final resting places of influential figures like Al Copeland, Ruth Fertel, and Anne Rice within its grounds․
Al Copeland (Popeyes Founder)
Al Copeland, the flamboyant founder of the Popeyes fried chicken chain, rests in Metairie Cemetery․ His tomb, reflective of his larger-than-life personality, is a notable landmark within the cemetery․ Copeland’s entrepreneurial spirit and impact on the culinary landscape of New Orleans are well-remembered․ A visit to his elaborate tomb offers a glimpse into the extravagance and success he achieved․ Many admire the unique design and opulent details of his final resting place, a testament to his legacy․ It stands as a symbol of his innovative approach and lasting influence on the fast-food industry․ His story of ambition and success resonates with many visitors, making it a popular stop․ The monument serves as a reminder of his significant contributions and enduring presence in the city’s cultural fabric․ Discover more about Copeland’s life and achievements as you explore his memorial․
Ruth Fertel (Ruth’s Chris Steak House Founder)
Ruth Fertel, the entrepreneurial powerhouse behind Ruth’s Chris Steak House, is interred in Metairie Cemetery․ Her journey from a single steak house to a global empire is a testament to her resilience and business acumen․ Fertel’s story is one of perseverance and determination, inspiring many aspiring entrepreneurs․ Visiting her gravesite provides a moment to reflect on her remarkable achievements and the impact she had on the culinary world․ Her legacy extends beyond the restaurant industry, serving as an example of female leadership and success․ Learn about her humble beginnings and the challenges she overcame to build her iconic brand․ Her final resting place offers a quiet space to appreciate her contributions and unwavering spirit․ It is a reminder of her dedication to quality and her commitment to creating a memorable dining experience․ Discover the story behind the steak house legend as you pay tribute to her memory․ Fertel’s impact is truly unforgettable․
Anne Rice (Vampire Novelist)
Anne Rice, the celebrated author of “Interview with the Vampire” and other gothic masterpieces, rests in Metairie Cemetery․ Her novels, filled with rich imagery and complex characters, captivated readers worldwide and redefined the vampire genre․ As you stand near her tomb, consider the influence of New Orleans’ atmosphere on her work, evident in her vivid descriptions and evocative storytelling․ Rice’s exploration of themes like immortality, love, and morality continues to resonate with audiences․ Her fans often visit her grave to pay homage to her literary contributions and her impact on popular culture․ Reflect on the power of her imagination and her ability to create immersive worlds that blur the lines between reality and fantasy․ Explore the connection between her life, her writing, and the city she loved․ Her legacy lives on through her books and the countless readers she inspired․ Visit her peaceful resting place and celebrate her remarkable talent and enduring influence on literature․ It’s a must-see for fans․
Architectural Highlights
Grand funerary architecture and sculpture abound․ See Greek temples, Gothic, and Islamic-style tombs․
Grand Funerary Architecture and Sculpture
Metairie Cemetery showcases some of the grandest funerary architecture and sculpture in the United States․ As you explore, you’ll be captivated by the live oaks that surround various architectural styles, including Greek temples that stand as solemn monuments to the deceased․ The cemetery also features stunning obelisks that reach towards the sky, marble monuments adorned with beautiful ironwork, and intricate stained glass that casts colorful light upon the grounds․ Each tomb tells a story, reflecting the unique tastes and beliefs of those interred within․ From the imposing structures to the delicate details, the architecture and sculpture of Metairie Cemetery offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of New Orleans․ These artistic expressions serve as lasting tributes to the lives and legacies of the city’s most influential and notorious citizens․ A visit here is a journey through art, history, and remembrance․
Variety of Tomb Styles (Greek, Gothic, Islamic)
Metairie Cemetery is renowned for its diverse array of tomb styles, reflecting a rich tapestry of architectural influences․ Wander through the grounds and discover striking examples of Greek-inspired tombs, reminiscent of ancient temples, with their stately columns and classical designs․ Marvel at the intricate details of Gothic-style tombs, characterized by pointed arches, elaborate carvings, and a sense of soaring grandeur․ You’ll also encounter tombs with Islamic influences, showcasing ornate geometric patterns and delicate calligraphy, providing a unique cultural contrast․ The juxtaposition of these various styles creates a visually stunning and historically significant landscape, each tomb a testament to the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of those who rest within․ Exploring this architectural variety offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage of New Orleans and the enduring power of artistic expression in commemorating the lives of the departed․
Tour Options and Accessibility
Explore Metairie Cemetery with guided tours from Save Our Cemeteries or embark on a self-guided adventure․
Guided Tours by Save Our Cemeteries
Join Save Our Cemeteries for a historically accurate and intimate tour of Metairie Cemetery․ By touring with this non-profit, you directly support the preservation of New Orleans’ historic cemeteries․ These small group tours offer a deep dive into the stories behind the extravagant tombs and the notable figures buried within, from Popeyes founder Al Copeland to vampire novelist Anne Rice․ Learn about the cemetery’s history, its grand funerary architecture, and the diverse characters who rest here․ Proceeds from the tours contribute directly to restoration efforts, helping to maintain this picturesque landmark․ Book your tour and help preserve this important piece of New Orleans history․ To schedule today, call 504-525-3377 or email tourssaveourcemeteries․
Self-Guided Tour Considerations
Embark on a self-guided adventure through Metairie Cemetery and discover the captivating stories and stunning architecture at your own pace․ Consider utilizing resources like self-guided tour maps or apps to navigate the 65 landscaped acres and uncover hidden gems․ Be mindful of the cemetery’s rules and regulations, respecting the solemnity of the space and the privacy of those visiting loved ones․ Take your time to admire the grand tombs, sculptures, and monuments, noting the diverse architectural styles that reflect New Orleans’ rich history․ Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on paved surfaces․ Although accessible to wheelchairs and scooters, some areas may present challenges․ Stories of Faith and Courage: A Self-Guided Tour of Metairie Cemetery
Points of Interest
Discover unique landmarks: pyramid, sphinx, Islamic tomb, weeping angel․ Extravagant tombs and sculptures․
Pyramid and Sphinx
One of the most iconic and visually striking features within Metairie Cemetery is the imposing pyramid and sphinx monument․ This unique structure reflects a blend of architectural styles and historical influences, adding to the cemetery’s distinct character․ The pyramid, a symbol of eternity and power, stands as a testament to the ambition and legacy of those interred nearby․ Guarding the pyramid’s entrance are the stoic sphinxes, mythical creatures with the body of a lion and the head of a human․ These sphinxes evoke a sense of mystery and protection, inviting visitors to ponder the secrets and stories held within the cemetery’s grounds․ The inclusion of Egyptian-inspired elements within a New Orleans cemetery highlights the cultural fusion and diverse influences that have shaped the city’s history․ As visitors explore Metairie Cemetery, the pyramid and sphinx serve as a captivating reminder of the past and a powerful symbol of remembrance․
Islamic-Inspired Tomb
Among the diverse architectural styles found within Metairie Cemetery, the Islamic-inspired tomb stands out as a particularly unique and intriguing example․ This tomb showcases the influence of Islamic design principles, featuring elements such as arches, domes, and intricate geometric patterns․ The incorporation of Islamic architectural motifs within a New Orleans cemetery reflects the city’s rich cultural tapestry and its history as a melting pot of diverse traditions․ According to local lore, this particular tomb was commissioned by a Confederate general as a tribute to his daughter․ The tomb serves as a poignant symbol of love and remembrance, blending personal sentiment with architectural grandeur․ As visitors explore Metairie Cemetery, the Islamic-inspired tomb offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city’s identity and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love and memory․
Weeping Angel Statue
The Weeping Angel statue in Metairie Cemetery stands as one of its most evocative and memorable features, drawing visitors with its poignant beauty and symbolic weight․ This sculpture, often rendered in marble or bronze, typically depicts an angel with its head bowed and face hidden, conveying a sense of sorrow and mourning․ The Weeping Angel serves as a powerful representation of grief, loss, and the eternal passage of time․ Its presence within the cemetery landscape adds a layer of emotional depth and invites contemplation on mortality and remembrance․ The statue’s artistic details, such as the delicate folds of its robe and the graceful curve of its wings, further enhance its aesthetic appeal and contribute to its overall impact․ Visitors often pause to admire the Weeping Angel, reflecting on the lives of those interred nearby and the enduring power of art to express profound human emotions․ The Weeping Angel statue, therefore, becomes a focal point for reflection and remembrance within the serene and historic setting of Metairie Cemetery, offering a visual reminder of the enduring nature of grief and the beauty that can be found even in sorrow․
Visiting Information
Plan your visit to Metairie Cemetery! Discover its location, accessibility details, and tour duration info here․
Location and Accessibility
Metairie Cemetery, a highlight for tourists in New Orleans, welcomes visitors to explore its historic grounds․ The cemetery’s accessible pathways accommodate wheelchairs and scooters, ensuring a comfortable experience for all․ Located on Metairie Road, the cemetery is easily reachable by car or public transportation․ Many find that visiting Metairie Cemetery is a highlight of their trip to New Orleans․ Its convenient location and accessible design allow for exploration of the grand tombs, monuments, and the peaceful atmosphere․ Keep an eye out for local tour operators that have been given exclusive access to the site․ With accessible paved surfaces throughout, navigating the cemetery is made easy․
Tour Duration and Distance
A self-guided tour of Metairie Cemetery offers flexibility in duration, typically ranging from 1․5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the funerary art and history․ The walking distance usually covers about half a mile on paved surfaces, ensuring easy navigation for visitors․ This moderate distance allows you to explore key points of interest without excessive exertion․ Be sure to allocate enough time to fully immerse yourself in the stories and sights․ The self-guided format enables you to adjust the pace and focus on areas that pique your interest, making the experience both educational and enjoyable․ You can retrace the steps of historical figures at your own pace, and truly experience it․
Preservation Efforts
Save Our Cemeteries spearheads efforts to preserve and protect New Orleans’ historic cemeteries․
Role of Save Our Cemeteries
Save Our Cemeteries plays a vital role in the preservation of Metairie Cemetery and other historic cemeteries in New Orleans․ As a non-profit organization, they are dedicated to protecting and restoring these cultural landmarks for future generations․ Their efforts include organizing tours, conducting research, and advocating for the preservation of these historical sites․ Save Our Cemeteries works to raise awareness about the importance of these cemeteries and the need for ongoing maintenance and restoration․ By supporting Save Our Cemeteries, visitors contribute directly to the preservation of New Orleans’ unique cultural heritage, ensuring that these historic sites continue to inspire and educate for years to come․ They offer historically accurate small tours․
Contribution of Tour Proceeds to Restoration
Tour proceeds directly support the crucial restoration efforts within Metairie Cemetery․ As a non-profit, Save Our Cemeteries channels all funds raised from guided tours towards the preservation and maintenance of this historic landmark․ These contributions are essential for addressing the ongoing challenges of weathering, erosion, and the natural elements that threaten the cemetery’s unique funerary architecture and sculptures․ By participating in a tour, visitors actively contribute to the conservation of tombs, monuments, and the overall landscape, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the cemetery’s cultural and historical significance․ The tour is a valuable source of funding․