Morne-à-l’Eau Cemetery in Guadeloupe
This cemetery is famous throughout the world for its unique character. It is located near Rousseau and Cocoyer in Guadeloupe.
These are not homes for the living, they are sepulchres for the deceased. They are built up the hill and form a type of amphitheatre.
There are 1800 tombs in this cemetery. Originally only the nobles and wealthy were placed here. More recently poets, painters and labourers are buried here.
Why the black and white checkerboard? It is not clear. Possibly a symbol of yin and yang or of life and death. In Europe, black is the colour of mourning. However, in Africa, white is the colour of mourning.
It is convenient to lookup more information.
The black and white designs are fascinating. And what a pretty place. it doesn’t look as gloomy as most cemeteries!
I’m with Alice on this one. The chequerboard and mosaic motifs are quite cheerful.
I am pretty sure the dead don’t mind either way so some colour and energy looks quite inviting.
Thanks for sharing Doug.
what an inTeresting Cemetery! When a car race is over they wave the checkered flag, maybe that’s the same here, the race is over.
An interesting perspective. Somewhere along life’s track, the choice is made to finish the race at full throttle or to get towed in as a rusted out, underused relic.
so fascinating Doug.. I would love to visit here sometime, I make the most wonderful discoveries of places to visit on your blog..