A small, unassuming cemetery, tucked away in the suburbs, Cimetiére Pasteur holds a forgotten treasure trove of Parisian history. It is simple and understated, with modest tombs and few embellishments, a reflection of the working-class community who lived and died in Bagnolet. It wouldn’t be the first place a visitor to Paris would think to visit, but this cemetery is rich in local history. The resting place of actors, singers, and even Bagnolet’s first socialist mayor, it’s a reminder that history is not just found in grand monuments and museums, but in every corner of life.
The cemetery’s origins date back to the 19th century. The old cemetery of St. Leu-St. Gilles, situated near the church, was closed in 1833, owing to overcrowding. The old cemetery, now Cimetiére Pasteur, was then extended in 1890. On the grounds today stands the former caretaker’s pavilion, an old building dating back to the same year.
Within its calm, quiet grounds we can find notable figures of the Parisian stage. Odette Laure, a well-known French actress, rests here along with the comedian Fortugé, whose career tragically ended prematurely. Rosy Varte, a celebrated actress, and her husband, the actor Pierre Badel, rest at peace here as well. Here too we find Marcel Maupi, who rose to fame in the early 20th century, known for his appearance in films by Marcel Pagnol.
Wandering through its paths, we notice the simplicity of the tombstones, a testament to the humbleness of the lives buried here. As we leave Cimetiére Pasteur, we may be struck by the silence amidst the urban chaos just beyond its walls, a reminder of the quiet stories that lie buried beneath our feet.