St. Roch Cemetery | New Orleans

Information

Landmark: St. Roch Cemetery
City: New Orleans
Country: USA Louisiana
Continent: North America

St. Roch Cemetery, New Orleans, USA Louisiana, North America

St. Roch Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in the St. Roch neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery features above-ground tombs constructed primarily from brick and marble. Many tombs are adorned with decorative ironwork and granite facades. The grounds are laid out in a grid pattern with paved pathways between the tombs. A prominent central chapel, known as the Chapel of St. Roch, is constructed of brick with a pitched roof and a small steeple.

Location & Access Logistics

St. Roch Cemetery is situated approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) northeast of the New Orleans Central Business District. Access is via St. Roch Avenue. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding residential area. Public transportation options include the RTA Bus Line 55 (St. Claude/Chabert) which stops within a 0.5km walk of the cemetery entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1870, St. Roch Cemetery was founded by Father Thevis, a pastor at the nearby St. Joseph Church, in response to a yellow fever epidemic. The cemetery was consecrated on February 18, 1870. Its purpose was to provide a dedicated burial site for those who succumbed to the disease and to serve as a place of prayer and remembrance.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the diverse architectural styles of the tombs. The Chapel of St. Roch contains numerous votive offerings, including crutches and artificial limbs, left by individuals seeking or giving thanks for healing. Walking the pathways allows for examination of historical inscriptions and funerary art.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available within the cemetery grounds. There is no designated shade structure. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located directly within the cemetery; options are available in the surrounding neighborhood.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the morning or late afternoon when the sun's angle creates distinct shadows on the tombs. The months of March through May and September through November offer the most temperate weather conditions. There are no tide-dependent activities.

Facts & Legends

A persistent local legend attributes miraculous healing powers to St. Roch, the patron saint of the sick. It is said that prayers offered at the chapel, particularly for recovery from illness, have been answered. The chapel is known for its collection of ex-votos, tangible proof of these perceived miracles.