Uneven ground. Moss-covered tombs. Overgrown shrubs. That is Cimetiere du Calvaire, the oldest cemetery in Paris.
I welcome you to this tiny ancient graveyard. It is a place where time seems to stand still. The Cimetiere du Calvaire whispers tales of Montmartre’s past.
Established in 1688 alongside the Montmartre Abbey, the Cimetiere du Calvaire holds the remains of aristocratic families. Only descendants of those families buried here may be interred today.
Imagine stepping through the magnificent bronze doors. These doors were created in 1980 by Italian artist Tommaso Gismondi and his daughter Donatella. Gismondi also sculpted doors for the Vatican Library. Take a close look at the Resurrection portrayed on these glorious doors. If the cemetery is closed, peer through the openings to catch a glimpse of what lies within.
The Cimetiere du Calvaire experienced damage during the French Revolution. It closed and then reopened in 1801. When the Cimetiere Saint-Vincent opened in 1823, the Cimetiere du Calvaire closed once more.
There are only 85 tombs here. Despite its small size, the Cimetiere du Calvaire is full of history. The cemetery spans about 6,500 square feet.
Look for the tomb of the Debray family. They were prominent millers in Montmartre. They owned the Moulin de la Galette. This gathering place was immortalized by Renoir, van Gogh, and Pissarro. Parisians came here for galettes and dancing. The Debray family tomb features a tiny windmill.
A stone column marks the spot where the heart of Louis Antoine de Bougainville rests. Bougainville was a famous French navigator, explorer, and botanist. He circumnavigated the world from 1766 to 1769. His body is interred at the Pantheon.
An engraved column marks the resting place of Felix Desportes. He was the first mayor of Montmartre. He was elected by the people in 1790 at 27 years old.
The Cimetiere du Calvaire also has a common grave for soldiers. These soldiers fell during the Battle of Paris in 1814. This battle saw heavy fighting between French Empire forces and the forces of Russia, Prussia, and Austria.
Priests, surgeons, and admirals are all buried here too. The Duc du Crillon is buried in this smallest cemetery in Paris. His home became a luxury hotel in Paris.
Visiting the Cimetiere du Calvaire feels exclusive. It feels special. These bronze doors are rarely opened. The bells of the Sacre-Coeur peal on Toussaint. It creates a memorable moment amidst the moss-covered tombs. The bells toll as you stand on uneven ground.
The Cimetiere du Calvaire is located at 2 rue du Mont-Cenis in Montmartre. It is in the 18th arrondissement.
The Cimetiere du Calvaire stands as a testament to Montmartre’s rich past. Its intimate setting and notable residents make it a unique and captivating place.