Paris donates historical gravesites – unique opportunity for citizens!

Paris donates historical gravesites – unique opportunity for citizens!

In Paris, the idea of ​​raffling off historic gravesites recently caused a stir. In particular, the famous cemeteries Père-Lachaise, Montparnasse and Montmartre are in focus. According to a report by Radio Bielefeld The city of Paris is planning to raffle off 30 graves in these prominent cemeteries. The gravesites are often multi-story family graves that are over 150 years old and are listed buildings.

Interested buyers must commit to restoring the often weathered gravesites to their original state. This can be done under the supervision of the monument protection authority. Another big advantage: the restoration could be ecologically beneficial because less granite would have to be imported. The purchase of such a grave site costs 4,000 euros, in addition to the usual rental fee for use.

Overcrowded cemeteries and need for restoration

The cemeteries within the city walls of Paris are overcrowded and have little room for more deceased people. Over SRF you learn that many old burial sites have fallen into disrepair and are overgrown with moss and weeds. The city has recognized that the preservation of these historic sites is of great importance, not only for their relatives but also for the general public. Many cemetery users in France have expressed their desire for restoration over the years.

The chance to win a gravesite is also seen by the city administration as an opportunity to enable Parisians to have a funeral within the city. It will be carried out as part of a pilot test and an assessment of the project will be made after the first run. The city plans to eventually expand the project depending on community interest.

Preserve cultural heritage

It's no secret that Paris serves as the final resting place of many well-known personalities. Not only do famous names rest near the gravesites of Jim Morrison and Édith Piaf in Père-Lachaise and of Simone de Beauvoir and Jacques Chirac in Montparnasse, but the cemeteries also provide recreational areas for the city center's more than two million residents. The tourists love to come here to explore the cultural and historical significance of the sites.

Fair conditions for those interested are also important. Buyers must prove that they live in Paris and submit two offers from specialist companies to restore the tomb. This is the only way to ensure that the culture and memories of the personalities buried here can continue.

The project to raffle off gravesites is a step towards bringing life back to Paris' once-thriving cemeteries while preserving the historical heritage of this unique city.