Description
Created in 1779, the Cimetière de l'Est is one of France?s most beautiful cemeteries, often compared to Père-Lachaise for the richness of its funerary heritage. As you stroll along its tree-lined paths, you'll discover a veritable open-air museum, where sculptures, family chapels and remarkably crafted monuments tell the story of more than two centuries of Lille?s history.
Spread over 22 hectares, almost 36,000 concessions make up a complex of great architectural diversity. Each grave bears witness to a particular style, period or know-how, creating an atmosphere conducive to contemplation. Numerous personalities are buried here, including former mayors Pierre Mauroy and Roger Salengro, whose graves recall the importance of their public commitments.
As you stroll among the headstones, you'll discover a place where art, memory and landscape meet. In this way, the Cimetière de l'Est offers both a heritage and a sensitive visit, revealing a little-known facet of Lille through a site charged with emotions and individual stories.
