St. Roch Cemetery Tour

If you’re heading to New Orleans and have a fascination with history, spirituality, or just love a good story, the St. Roch Cemetery Tour offers a compelling glimpse into this historic resting place. This approximately 1.5-hour experience, led by the passionate team at Save Our Cemeteries, combines storytelling, stunning statuary, and a dash of local lore—all for just $25 per person. With a perfect 5-star rating from 10 reviews, it’s clear that this tour resonates deeply with those who participate.

One of the highlights? You’ll get to learn about the Stations of the Cross carved in Italy, a feature that adds both artistic beauty and spiritual depth to the cemetery. Plus, your ticket helps support ongoing conservation efforts—making this not just a tour, but a way to give back to the city’s historic treasures.

However, it’s worth noting that a minimum of 4 guests is needed to run the tour, so it’s best to plan ahead. If you’re curious about authentic, meaningful encounters with New Orleans’ cemetery culture, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just be prepared for a respectful, slightly contemplative experience rather than a purely entertainment-focused outing.

Key Points

• Historical significance: Learn about the origins of St. Roch Cemetery and its connection to yellow fever outbreaks.
• Unique features: Marvel at Italian-carved Stations of the Cross, still used in annual Good Friday processions.
• Support conservation: Your ticket funds ongoing restoration, making this a meaningful experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Leslie, enhance every aspect of the tour.
• Authentic storytelling: Get insights that go beyond surface details, making each stop memorable.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 12) mean more personal attention and richer conversations.

A Deep Dive into the St. Roch Cemetery Tour

What Makes the St. Roch Cemetery Special?

Founded in 1874 by Reverend Peter Leonard Thevis, St. Roch Cemetery No. 1 holds a deeply rooted place in New Orleans history. The story of its creation is intertwined with the yellow fever epidemic of 1868, during which Reverend Thevis prayed to St. Roch, the Saint of Good Health. Legend has it that because no one in his congregation died, a shrine and chapel were built to honor the Saint. This historical connection lends a profound spiritual dimension to the site.

Unlike typical cemeteries, St. Roch is distinguished by its Stations of the Cross, carved in Italy and donated in the early 20th century. These statues, crafted by the workshop of Enrico Arrighini, are regularly part of an annual Good Friday procession, showcasing their ongoing religious significance. This combination of artistry and faith makes the cemetery a place of both remembrance and reverence.

What’s Included in the Tour?

Your ticket covers the entire 1.5-hour tour, beginning at St Roch Cemetery No. 1 at 10:00 am. The tour covers the history behind the cemetery, details of the Italian-carved Stations of the Cross, and insights into the cultural practices surrounding this sacred site. All fees are included in the $25 cost, so no surprises there.

Expect to walk through the grounds, observing the array of tombstones, statues, and the distinctive chapel shrine. Guides like Leslie and Dana have been praised for their deep knowledge, friendly manner, and ability to convey the cemetery’s stories with warmth and clarity.

What to Expect at Each Stop

St Roch Cemetery No. 1 (~Campo Santo): This is the main attraction, where guides share stories about the cemetery’s founding, its role during yellow fever outbreaks, and the legend of St. Roch. Here, you’ll see the Italian-made Stations of the Cross, which are quite a sight—intricately carved, weathered by time, and still used in processions today.

Reviewers mention that guides like Leslie make the experience feel like touring with an old friend, sharing insights with a friendly ease that makes history come alive. One reviewer said, “Leslie was the cherry on top,” highlighting how much personality and knowledge guides bring.

Cultural insight: The annual procession of the Stations on Good Friday adds a layer of ongoing spiritual life to the cemetery, making it more than just a resting place but a living part of New Orleans’ religious culture.

The Atmosphere and Experience

We loved the way guides weave stories into the scenery, making each monument and statue more meaningful. The statues carved in Italy and the chapel shrine create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere—timeless, spiritual, and quietly powerful. Reviewers consistently note the beauty of the cemetery and the knowledge of the guides, emphasizing how these elements make the experience memorable.

The small group size (max 12) means you get more personalized attention and opportunities for questions. The relaxed pace allows for reflection and a deeper appreciation of the site. It’s a respectful, contemplative experience rather than a hurried walk-through.

The Value of Your Ticket

For $25, you’re not just paying for a stroll through a historic cemetery; you’re supporting ongoing preservation efforts. This added benefit is often highlighted by reviewers who appreciate that their money goes toward maintenance and restoration. The tour’s pricing offers excellent value considering the quality of storytelling, the uniqueness of the features, and the contribution to conservation.

Practical Details & Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended; on average, tours are booked 9 days ahead.
• The tour requires a minimum of 4 guests to proceed, so consider booking early or checking for availability.
• It starts promptly at 10:00 am at 1725 St Roch Ave, so plan to arrive a few minutes early.
• Comfortable shoes are advised for walking around the grounds.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.
• Gratuities for guides are not included—if you feel they did a great job, a tip is appreciated.

The Sum Up

The St. Roch Cemetery Tour offers a thoughtful, beautifully curated look at a sacred and storied part of New Orleans. It’s more than just a walk among tombstones; it’s an opportunity to understand how history, faith, art, and community intertwine in this city’s unique culture.

If you’re seeking an authentic experience that combines storytelling, historical insight, and spiritual reflection, this tour hits all those marks. The knowledgeable guides, stunning Italian carvings, and ongoing preservation efforts make it a meaningful choice.

Ideal for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the soulful side of New Orleans, this tour promises a respectful and enriching look into the city’s “Cities of the Dead.” You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the artistry, history, and ongoing life of the cemetery—and perhaps a new perspective on what it means to honor the departed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is respectful and not overly graphic, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can appreciate the history and symbolism.

Are the tours canceled in bad weather?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, which allows enough time to explore and absorb the stories without feeling rushed.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the tour?
It’s recommended to book at least 9 days in advance, but availability may depend on the minimum guest requirement.

Is there a guided tour option?
Yes, the experience is guided, with knowledgeable guides like Leslie and Dana leading the group.

What is included in the price?
All fees are included in the $25 ticket; no additional costs for entry or activities.

Are tips included?
No, gratuities for guides are not included but are appreciated if you feel they provided exceptional service.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised for walking around the cemetery grounds.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
The available information doesn’t specify accessibility features, but it’s best to contact the provider directly for tailored questions.

Overall, the St. Roch Cemetery Tour stands out as a respectful, enlightening, and visually stunning experience. It’s well worth considering for anyone interested in New Orleans’ cultural and spiritual fabric.