Growing up in New Orleans, never once did I give aboveground burial a second thought – it was normal for me. Now that I’m grown, I realize why they hold such a sense of wonder and fascination for so many people.

Cemeteries of New Orleans are a tourist attraction in, and of themselves. And have been featured in numerous novels and movies over the years. Mark Twain once remarked "New Orleans' most notable architecture was in its cemeteries."

These graveyards appear to be rows of houses and often referred to as "Cities of the Dead." They are mesmerizing, beautiful and shrouded in mystery and intrigue.

Some stand as regal representation of the dignitaries which are encased within its vault, while others prevail in their ghostly and desecrated state—mocking the thief long after the plunder and robbery of their bones and belongings.

Beyond the elaborate ironwork, marble and granite, or modest brick and mortar, they all have one thing in common: a symbol of remembrance and devotion to a life. A human being that once lived and loved. Some bearing visible scars to prove their age of two hundred years.

Why are These Graves Aboveground?

Many believe (including the locals), that since much of New Orleans is either at, or below sea level, the coffins would be washed away in floods if they were buried in the ground. Hurricane Katrina proved that theory incorrect.

The likely reason is that New Orleans was born under French and Spanish rule and that is how they took care of their dearly departed, in aboveground tombs, mausoleums, crypts and vaults.

There are over thirty cemeteries in Greater New Orleans and surrounding areas, each telling their own unique stories.

Symbolism in the Cemeteries of New Orleans

Many visitors to New Orleans' cemeteries marvel at the aboveground vaults made from various materials and in various styles. However, there is even more intrigue in the monuments and figures that adorn them.

Leonard V. Huber published a book, "Clasped Hands, Symbolism in the New Orleans Cemeteries," 1982.

In the forward of this book Jessie J. Poech, Professor of Art History at Newcomb College, Tulane University wrote, "Fewer people have taken the time to study the rich variety of carved symbolism found more often in later cemeteries of the city." He went on to say "Much of this carving occurs on more modest gravestones and dates from the middle years of the nineteenth century and onward."

Clasped Hands - In most all representations of a man and woman holding hands, the woman's hands are always to the left with the mans hands to the right. This symbol means "holy-matrimony—of union."

Hand - Images of a hand with the index finger pointing up means "Hope of Heaven."

Heart - The source of understanding and devotion. A flaming heart signifies the suffering and sacrifice of the Redeemer.

Flowers - The rose signifies the Virgin Mary while a bouquet of flowers is a symbol of plenty.

Wreath - Symbol of memory or victory.

Weeping Willow - Signifies sorrow.

The Almighty - A triangle with or without an eye symbolizes the Eye of God or the omnipresence of the Almighty.

Cross - The most universal of symbols - the perfect symbol of Christ.

Cross and the Crown - Symbolizes the mark of victory.

Trefoil and Quatrefoil - Trefoil is a symbol of the Trinity while the Quatrefoil is associated with Saints Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Dove - Purity and peace.

Lamb - Symbolizes the Lord Jesus.

Cherubs - Innocence and is almost always found on the graves of children.

Angels - Messengers and attendants of God.

Weeping Figure - Sorrow and grief.

Urns - Draped urn is a symbol of mourning.

Torch - Symbolizes the sun and also the Nativity.

Anchor - Christ the Savior.

Lyre - Music and songs in honor of God.

Hourglass - A life cut short.

Book - Represents the Word of God or the Bible.

Butterfly - The resurrection and eternal life through Christ.

Touring the Cemeteries of New Orleans

If you decide to visit any one of these historic cemeteries in person, it is highly advisable that you travel with a tour guide.

Some of the oldest and most interesting are in areas where it wouldn't be safe otherwise. Besides, guides are very knowledgeable and are there to share their experience and answer any questions.

• Historic Walking Tours — (504) 947-2120 - The owner and operator is the author of two books on cemeteries.
• Save Our Cemeteries — (504) 525-3377 - This is a non-profit organization founded in 1974 and is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the historic cemeteries of Louisiana with licensed tour guides conducting tours regularly.

Do you know how to do something and want to share your knowledge? Sign up for an account at HubPages. Its fun, free and you can earn ongoing royalty on your Hubs.