Cimetière Voltaire

Hidden beneath the gaze of Mont Valérien, the Cimetière Voltaire whispers stories of Suresnes’ past. This isn’t just a cemetery; it’s a vantage point overlooking the bustling city of Paris, a tranquil oasis where the echoes of history meet the vibrant pulse of modern life. Opened in 1892 as the Cimetière des Bas-Rogers, it was later renamed Cimetière Voltaire, after the adjacent street. The cemetery’s sloping terrain, a characteristic shared with the neighboring old Puteaux cemetery, provides a unique layout. Older tombs rest at the bottom of the slope, while the upper reaches offer breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and the sprawling cityscape. Within Cimetière Voltaire’s walls, you’ll find more than just names etched in stone. The cemetery houses three military plots. One plot holds twenty-three graves, nine of which are unknown, of French soldiers from the First World War. Another plot also contains graves of French soldiers from the same war. A third plot commemorates 128 soldiers who fell during the Second World War, the Indochina War (1946-1954), and the Algerian War (1954-1962). These plots serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in times of conflict. Beyond its military significance, Cimetière Voltaire holds the remains of prominent figures who shaped Suresnes and the world beyond. Fernand Forest, the inventor of the internal combustion engine, rests here, his tombstone proudly proclaiming his achievement. A bronze medallion, crafted by Coutre, adorns his final resting place. The cemetery is also the final resting place of Marcel Herrand, the renowned theater figure best known for his portrayal of the criminal dandy Lacenaire in “Les Enfants du Paradis”. The artist Juana Romani, a talented portraitist who met a tragic end similar to Camille Claudel, also lies here. As you wander through the Cimetière Voltaire, take note of the architectural styles of the tombs. From the elaborate monument to the Le Clerc family, showcasing the early 20th-century fascination with faux rock, to the simple grandeur of the war memorials, the cemetery reflects the changing tastes and traditions of Suresnes. The busts of former mayor Arthème Genteur and engineer Prosper Emile Liot, crafted by Auguste Maillard and Charles Filleul respectively, stand as testaments to the artistry of the time. Cimetière Voltaire offers a unique perspective on the history of Suresnes and France. It’s a place where the past and present converge, where stories of innovation, sacrifice, and artistry unfold under the watchful eye of Mont Valérien.