Two kilometers north of Melbourne Central lies the gothic wonderland of the Melbourne General Cemetery. The withering and dilapidated tombstone set against the modern skyline are sure to give you a different view of the city. Despite periods of mismanagement and neglect, it is one of Australia’s most important cemeteries. Since its beginnings in 1853, close to one million people have been buried here. Preachers, con men, musicians, politicians, and famous explorers like Robert O’Hara Burke and William John Wills all lay together on these grounds.
Several heritage buildings and notable sites are scattered throughout the grounds, including a traditional Chinese funerary oven, two mausoleums, and a memorial to the king himself, Elvis Presley. So don’t get all shook up about visiting the dead, the Melbourne General Cemetery is full of life, in its own way.
College Crescent, Parkville VIC 3052
Website:
www.necropolis.net.au/melbournegeneral
Phone: 03 9349 3014
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