St. Roch Cemetery Tour

Discover the Unique Charm of the St. Roch Cemetery Tour in New Orleans

The St. Roch Cemetery Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the history and spirituality of New Orleans’ most visited cemetery. For $25 per person, this 1 hour 30 minutes guided experience takes place at St Roch Cemetery No. 1, located at 1725 St Roch Ave. Led by Save Our Cemeteries, a non-profit dedicated to preserving local burial sites, this tour combines cultural insight with a meaningful cause, making it ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or those interested in the city’s haunted allure.

This tour is designed for small groups, capped at 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. It departs at 10:00 am and includes all fees in the ticket price, with opportunities to learn about the cemetery’s architecture, history, and ongoing restoration efforts. A key strength lies in the knowledgeable guides, praised for their warmth and depth of knowledge, making this experience both educational and memorable.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-paced 1.5-hour guided tour at $25 per person
• Supports cemetery preservation, with part of the proceeds funding ongoing restoration
• Focus on history and architecture, including Italian-carved Stations of the Cross
• Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides who bring the cemetery’s stories to life
• Ideal for small groups, with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention
• Accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed and a flexible cancellation policy

An Introduction to St Roch Cemetery No. 1 and its Origins

St Roch Cemetery No. 1, also known as Campo Santo, was founded in 1874 by Rev. Peter Leonard Thevis. The cemetery gained importance during the 1868 yellow fever epidemic when Rev. Thevis prayed to St. Roch, the Patron Saint of Good Health, and vowed to build a chapel if his congregation was spared. When no one in his community died, a shrine and chapel were constructed as a testament to their survival. This history ties deeply into the spiritual fabric of the site.

The cemetery’s highlight is the Stations of the Cross, which are carved in Italy by the workshop of Enrico Arrighini. These sculptures are a rare feature in New Orleans and are still part of an annual procession on Good Friday, maintaining a tradition that connects the present with the past.

Exploring the Stations of the Cross Carved in Italy

The Stations of the Cross carved in Italy are a major highlight of this tour. These statues are crafted with detailed artistry and are a testament to the cultural ties between Italy and New Orleans. The annual Good Friday procession that features all 14 stations adds a lively spiritual element to the cemetery’s atmosphere and offers a glimpse of the ongoing religious practices connected to this site.

Visitors learn about the significance of these sculptures and their connection to Italian craftsmanship, making this a unique aspect of the tour. The artistic detail and historical importance of the stations make them a focal point for those interested in religious art and cultural history.

Supporting Restoration and Preservation Efforts

One of the key benefits of this tour is that your ticket contributes directly to the restoration and preservation of St Roch Cemetery. The Save Our Cemeteries organization ensures that funds go toward upkeeping this historic site, which has seen many periods of decline and renewal over the years.

This approach adds a layer of meaning to the experience, as visitors are actively participating in the ongoing effort to protect and maintain New Orleans’ unique above-ground cemeteries. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help deepen understanding of the challenges and successes involved in cemetery conservation.

The Tour Itinerary and Key Stops

The tour begins at St Roch Cemetery No. 1, also called Campo Santo, which features a shrine and chapel built after the community’s survival during a yellow fever outbreak. As the guide leads you through the grounds, the focus is on the history of the cemetery, the architecture, and the spiritual traditions that continue today.

Throughout the 90-minute experience, the guide shares stories about each feature, including the Italian sculptures, the historic tombs, and the notable figures buried there, if applicable. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, leaving ample time for questions or further exploration of the grounds.

Practical Information: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour starts at 1725 St Roch Ave, at St Roch Cemetery No. 1. It departs promptly at 10:00 am, and since the group is limited to 12 travelers, it maintains an intimate and engaging atmosphere. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and confirmation is immediate upon booking.

Participants should note that service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with assistance needs. The tour also cancels free of charge if canceled 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Why This Tour Stands Out in New Orleans

This guided walk combines cultural significance, artistic beauty, and community support in a way few cemetery tours do. Unlike some more casual or commercial experiences, Save Our Cemeteries emphasizes education and conservation, giving visitors a chance to learn while helping preserve a vital part of New Orleans’ heritage.

The friendly guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and personable approach, making the experience feel like a visit with a well-informed friend. The focus on local history and religious art sets this tour apart from ghost or supernatural-themed excursions, appealing to those interested in the deeper stories behind the city’s burial sites.

What to Expect from the Duration and Pace

The 1 hour 30 minutes duration strikes a balance between thoroughness and comfort. The pacing allows ample time for photographs, questions, and absorbing the details of each highlighted feature. Since the tour is designed for small groups, it feels relaxed and personalized, avoiding the crowds common in more popular tourist spots.

Visitors should plan for outdoor walking, but the terrain is generally accessible. The informative narration ensures that even brief stops feel meaningful, making this a suitable experience for most ages.

Accessibility and Weather Considerations

The tour is accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed and a manageable duration. Since the experience is outdoors, good weather is essential; if canceled due to weather, participants are offered a full refund or alternative date. Travelers are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, especially during warmer months.

Final Thoughts: Is the St. Roch Cemetery Tour Worth It?

For $25, this tour offers deep insight into a uniquely beautiful cemetery, its artworks, and history, all while supporting a vital preservation effort. It’s recommended for those who appreciate history, art, religious traditions, and community involvement.

While it’s not a flashier ghost-hunting or party tour, its strength lies in authentic storytelling and fundraising for preservation. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it an engaging experience that feels both meaningful and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the ticket price?
All fees for the tour are included in the $25 ticket price.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 1725 St Roch Ave, at St Roch Cemetery No. 1.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour different from other cemetery visits?
It emphasizes historic significance, artistic sculptures from Italy, and supporting cemetery restoration, not just sightseeing.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely, the artworks, tombs, and scenery offer plenty of photo opportunities.

Do guides share local stories and personal insights?
Yes, guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, enriching the experience.

Is the tour accessible in bad weather?
If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Can I bring food or drinks?
The data does not specify, but as an outdoor walking tour, bringing water is recommended.