Isn’t it amazing how cities hold their history? Here at the Cimetière de l’Est in Lille, we see a perfect example. This isn’t just any cemetery. It is one of France’s most beautiful cemeteries. Only Père Lachaise in Paris is considered more impressive.
The Cimetière de l’Est first opened in 1779. That makes it one of the oldest large cemeteries in France. Imagine the stories these grounds could tell. The Coustenoble-Dujardin family donated the land. They were prominent in the region. They requested the area’s park-like feel be preserved. This wish was honored. The Cimetière de l’Est is known for its landscaping.
Spanning 22 hectares, the Cimetière de l’Est contains around 36000 burial plots. It is a diverse burial ground. While primarily Catholic, you will find tombs reflecting various faiths. Jewish, Muslim, Chinese, Japanese and Turkish graves are here. Look closely. You may even spot Freemason symbols like the square and compass.
Over time, the Cimetière de l’Est has become a haven for nature. Squirrels, cats and birds roam freely. Various plants thrive including fruit trees like persimmon and walnut. The city and local businesses care for this green space. There is even a pond and some beehives.
Many prominent people from Lille are buried here. Consider Émile Dubuisson the architect or General Louis Faidherbe a Senegal administrator. Henri Ghesquière a deputy and Joseph Hel a luthier also rest here. Auguste-Joseph Herlin a painter and Jules Herman a flutist are interred here too. Jean Joire a sculptor and Alfred Labille a master glassmaker also found their final resting place here. And let’s not forget Oscar Lambret a medical professor and Augustin Laurent a former mayor of Lille. These are just a few of the notable figures within the Cimetière de l’Est.
Keep an eye out for unique memorials. The collective tomb of the “Caveau Lillois” honors about 40 local songwriters. The Coustenoble-Dujardin family vault is impressive. It potentially holds up to 150 people. The Decottignies tomb depicts an elderly mother kneeling. She is kneeling before her son’s wooden cross with his soldier’s helmet on top. A statue of the cellist Eliza de Try playing her instrument is here. The graves of Lille residents executed in 1915 also mark this space.
Before we move on, take a moment to appreciate the blend of history and nature at the Cimetière de l’Est. It is a testament to Lille’s past. It also shows the city’s commitment to preserving green spaces even in the most unexpected places.