10 Famous People Buried in Catacombs Around the World
Catacombs, underground burial places that are often found beneath cities and towns, have been used for centuries to lay the dead to rest. Many of these catacombs have become famous tourist attractions due to their unique architecture and historical significance. However, some catacombs house the remains of famous people who were laid to rest there for various reasons. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most well-known individuals buried in catacombs around the world.
1) Napoleon Bonaparte
Napoleon Bonaparte is one of France’s most famous historical figures and was laid to rest in Les Invalides after his death in 1821. However, it wasn’t until 1840 that his body was moved from St. Helena Island (where he died in exile) to France. Today, visitors can see Napoleon’s tomb inside Les Invalides’ chapel as part of a tour.
2) Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe was an American author known for his dark poetry and short stories such as “The Raven” and “The Tell-Tale Heart.” He died under mysterious circumstances in Baltimore in 1849 and was initially buried without a headstone. His grave remained unmarked until the late 1800s when a monument was erected over his final resting place at Westminster Hall and Burying Grounds.
3) Michelangelo Buonarroti
Michelangelo Buonarroti is widely considered one of Italy’s greatest artists thanks to works such as David, The Sistine Chapel ceiling frescoes, and Pietà (the sculpture depicting Mary holding Jesus). After his death in Rome in 1564, Michelangelo’s remains were interred at Santa Croce Basilica where they remain today.
4) Eva Perón
Eva Perón (also known as Evita), was First Lady of Argentina from 1946-1952 alongside her husband, President Juan Perón. She was known for her charity work and advocacy for women’s suffrage before passing away in 1952 at just 33 years old. Her body was embalmed and displayed in the presidential palace before being interred at La Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires.
5) Jim Morrison
Jim Morrison was the lead singer of The Doors, a rock band that rose to fame in the late 1960s. He died of heart failure while in Paris, France, and was buried at Père Lachaise Cemetery. Today, his grave is one of the most visited sites in the cemetery with fans leaving offerings such as flowers and graffiti on his headstone.
6) Princess Diana
Princess Diana (also known as “The People’s Princess”) captured hearts around the world during her time as a member of Britain’s royal family. After her death in a car accident in 1997, she was laid to rest on an island within Althorp Estate (the Spencer family home). The island is open to visitors who can pay their respects at Diana’s tomb.
7) Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde was an Irish playwright and poet who became famous for works like The Picture of Dorian Gray and Lady Windermere’s Fan. Following his conviction for homosexuality (which resulted in two years’ hard labor), Wilde left England and settled in Paris where he passed away due to meningitis. His remains were initially buried at Bagneux Cemetery but later moved to Père Lachaise Cemetery where visitors can see his elaborate tomb today.
8) Tutankhamun
Tutankhamun (also known as King Tut) ruled ancient Egypt from around 1332-1323 BCE when he passed away unexpectedly at just 18 years old. His burial chamber remained hidden until it was discovered by archaeologist Howard Carter nearly three millennia later. Visitors can now see King Tut’s tomb, which is filled with treasures such as his gold mask, at the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.
9) Karl Marx
Karl Marx was a philosopher and economist who co-authored The Communist Manifesto alongside Friedrich Engels. He passed away in London in 1883 and was buried at Highgate Cemetery where a large monument commemorates his life and work.
10) Emilio Aguinaldo
Emilio Aguinaldo was the first President of the Philippines following its independence from Spain in 1898. He passed away in 1964 and was interred at Aguinaldo Shrine (his former home turned museum) along with members of his family.
In conclusion, catacombs around the world are not only fascinating underground structures but also serve as final resting places for many famous individuals throughout history. From artists to politicians, their legacy lives on through their unique burial sites that attract visitors from all over the world wanting to pay their respects.