As part of my ‘do two different things’ this week, I ventured to Père Lachaise Cemetery to have a wander around. For those who have never heard of it, Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest cemetery in Paris. However, it’s not only known for it’s vastness, but for the many burials it contains, especially of many famous people including writers, authors, composers, musicians and many more. Père Lachaise Cemetery is in the 20th arr, and there are two close metro stations near either end of the Cemetery. I decided to go here because this was something that my family and I did not have a chance to explore when we were here in Paris last year.
I was not too sure what to expect. I definitely didn’t know that it was going to be as big as it was, so if you’re going to go there, make sure you wear comfortable shoes! I also did the grave mistake (pardon the pun) of going without a map. Many people believe a map in Père Lachaise Cemetery to be a vital necessity, as it helps point you into the right direction of seeing many of the famous celebrities that are laid to rest here. However, I did not let this minor disadvantage stop me, and just wondered at my own leisure. Tuesday, when I went to Père Lachaise Cemetery, was the first day of Autumn, and you could definitely see this all around. Although a site of burial, the Cemetery looked stunning. It was tranquil, quiet and peaceful. It really is a beautiful place, even though somewhat haunting.
Despite my complaints regarding the tourist etiquette, I had a wonderful time wandering and weaving through the different paths of the Cemetery. Of course, following as the sheep I am, I did also see the infamous memorials.
If you’re thinking of heading to Père Lachaise Cemetery, I would recommend entering the Gambetta entrance as this allows for a downhill walk throughout the cemetery. However, the main entrance on the other side of the Cemetery offers you the free maps, so it’s up to you whether you’re up to paying a couple of euro for a map from a near by shop or perhaps print one out before hand.
