One of New Orleans' "cities of the dead."
Louisiana boasts a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy, from a vibrant art and culture scene to its culinary delights and an array of outdoor activities available in many state parks. The state also boasts some fine landmarks and monuments, serving as testimony to its rich and varied history.
Gallier House, New Orleans
Located in the French Quarter and designed by the Gallier brothers -- among the most esteemed architects of the mid-19th century -- Gallier House is a wonderful reminder of New Orleans' architectural heyday. The house features a balcony overlooking Royal Street incorporating three wrought iron arches, some of the finest examples of ornate iron latticework in a city renowned for it. The restored interiors boast exquisite Victorian furnishings and many portraits of the Gallier family themselves. The bathroom features hot and cold running water, a rare luxury included in the original design of 1857.
Old State Capitol, Baton Rouge
The Old State Capitol is a 160-year old state house and a Gothic architectural treasure that overlooks the Mississippi in downtown Baton Rouge. It was designed by James Harrison Dakin who described it as "castellated gothic" and it was the seat of Louisiana government until 1862. A fire shortly after destroyed much of the interior which was then restored in 1882 by William A. Freret, who installed its now signature grand staircase. It was abandoned again in 1932 when the government officially moved to a new building and by 1991 it was facing demolition. However, it was saved by a group of concerned citizens and politicians who began another program of restoration.
Old Ursuline Convent, New Orleans
The Old Ursuline Convent in New Orleans is the only surviving French Colonial building in the United States. It dates from 1752 and was founded by the Ursulines, an order of religious women who came to New Orleans and established schools and orphanages. It was occupied by the Ursulines for 90 years but today is used by the Archdiocese of New Orleans as an archive, housing documents that date back to 1718.
Lafayette Cemetery, New Orleans
Located in the historic Garden District, Lafayette Cemetery was opened in 1833 making it one of the oldest in New Orleans. It was the city's first planned cemetery, with intersecting avenues designed for accommodating funeral processions, and includes a variety of different tomb styles. Over 30 above-ground cemeteries were built in New Orleans following its construction, referred to as "cities of the dead." It is popular with visitors for its architecture and atmosphere as well as the references made to it by Anne Rice in her novels such as "Interview with the Vampire."
Tags: Baton Rouge, cities dead, Convent Orleans, Gallier House, Lafayette Cemetery
