New Orleans has some of the most incredibly unique cemeteries in the world, and people come from all over just to view them. While the Saint Louis Cemeteries tend to get all the glory, there’s a lesser-known cemetery that’s equally beautiful and historic, and you should check it out. Let’s take a closer look at the history of St. Roch Cemetery, shall we?
St. Roch Cemetery No. 1 was established in 1874 by Reverend Peter Leonard Thevis, who was the pastor of the Holy Trinity Church.
Jason Perrone/Google
It’s truly one of the most hauntingly beautiful cemeteries in New Orleans.
Firas A./Google
As you stroll through the cemetery, you’ll come across the Gothic-style chapel, which was built in 1875.
Jesus Aguilasocho/Google
During the yellow fever epidemic of the 1870s, Rev. Thevis prayed to Saint Roch and asked him to protect his congregation. When no one from his congregation died from the disease, he built the chapel to honor St. Roch.
Ken Kolar/Google
One of the most unusual features of this cemetery is the side room of the chapel.
Brandon Ore/Google
Inside, you’ll find everything from crutches to thank you cards. The site has become a pilgrimage of sorts for those wishing to pay their respects to the patron saint of protection from epidemics.
Brandon Ore/Google
And of course, no New Orleans cemetery would be complete without a paranormal story or two, and St. Roch is no different.
Eric Sanny P./Google
There have been ghost stories floating around this cemetery for ages. One of the most famous is the ghost of a dog who is often seen wandering through the cemetery. He is an unusually large black dog, and if approached, he vanishes right before your very eyes.
Brian Dawson/Google We should mention that St. Roch is also patron saint of dogs, so it’s certainly interesting that this particular cemetery might just have a paranormal pup roaming the grounds!
The cemetery is open from 8:30 a.m. till 4 p.m. daily.
Have you ever visited St. Roch Cemetery? Let us know in the comments below. And if you have a local attraction you think we should know about, nominate it for a chance to be featured!
Jason Perrone/Google
Firas A./Google
Jesus Aguilasocho/Google
Ken Kolar/Google
Brandon Ore/Google
Eric Sanny P./Google
Brian Dawson/Google
We should mention that St. Roch is also patron saint of dogs, so it’s certainly interesting that this particular cemetery might just have a paranormal pup roaming the grounds!
The cemetery is open from 8:30 a.m. till 4 p.m. daily.
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Address: 1725 St Roch Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
