Historic bluffside burial ground established in 1822, featuring elaborate ironwork, antebellum monuments, and self-guided walking tours.
General Information
Self-guided tours available; CD tours offered at the main office and visitor center
Donations welcome for preservation efforts
How to Get There
From downtown Natchez, take Cemetery Road north past the bluff, and follow signs to the main entrance near the Shelter House.
Overview
The Natchez City Cemetery, established in 1822, is one of the most historically significant and visually stunning cemeteries in the American South. Perched on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, the cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of individuals whose lives shaped the story of Natchez. Visitors can explore ornate ironwork, antebellum-era tombstones, and monuments crafted by renowned artisans like Edwin Lyon and Robert Rawes. The grounds are shaded by ancient live oaks and offer sweeping views of the river, especially breathtaking at sunset.
The cemetery is known for its self-guided walking tours, including a CD audio tour available at the main office and visitor center. Highlights include the “Turning Angel” statue, the Jewish section, and the graves of Confederate soldiers, riverboat captains, and prominent local figures. Seasonal events such as “Angels on the Bluff” bring history to life through costumed reenactments and storytelling. Managed by the Natchez Cemetery Association, the site is open year-round and remains a place of reflection, remembrance, and Southern heritage.
This article uses material from the official website and tourism pages for the Natchez City Cemetery, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
