Active burial grounds—not just tourist attractions. Here’s how to explore respectfully.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is more than just a landmark. Established in 1789, it remains an active burial ground and a place of deep cultural, historical, and spiritual significance. Every year, thousands of visitors walk its narrow aisles of above-ground tombs, drawn by its architecture, famous residents, and the unique traditions of New Orleans.
But visiting a cemetery is not the same as visiting a museum. To honor the people interred here, and to preserve the space for future generations, it’s important to approach your tour with respect and awareness.
Why Etiquette Matters
Unlike other attractions in New Orleans, cemeteries are not simply tourist destinations—they are sacred spaces. Families still visit and maintain tombs, and the Archdiocese of New Orleans oversees their care. Practicing proper etiquette ensures that these places are treated as what they are: active burial grounds and cultural landmarks, not backdrops for entertainment.
Dos and Don’ts for Visitors
- Do listen to your guide. Cemetery Tours NOLA is the only operator authorized to bring visitors into St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Guides not only share history but also set the tone for respectful behavior.
- Don’t draw on tombs. Despite the myths, marking “XXX” on Marie Laveau’s tomb is not part of Voodoo tradition and permanently damages fragile plaster.
- Do take photos responsibly. Photography is welcome, but avoid posing in ways that trivialize the site. Treat the tombs like monuments in a church or memorial.
- Don’t touch offerings or artifacts. Many families leave flowers, candles, or tokens at graves. These are acts of remembrance, not souvenirs.
- Do move carefully. Walkways are narrow, and some tombs are centuries old. Leaning or climbing can cause irreparable harm.
Understanding the Cultural Context
Cemeteries in New Orleans reflect the city’s unique history, shaped by French and Spanish colonial influence, African traditions, and Catholic faith. Above-ground tombs are not only a practical adaptation to the city’s environment but also part of its cultural identity.
By following simple etiquette, you’re doing more than showing courtesy—you’re participating in ethical tourism that safeguards these traditions.
A Tour that Protects the Past
Joining a guided tour through Cemetery Tours NOLA ensures that your visit both educates and preserves. Every ticket supports maintenance and restoration, and guides are trained to balance storytelling with cultural sensitivity.
Join a guided tour that honors and protects this sacred space inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
