Do you find old cemeteries fascinating?

I find that old cemeteries are fascinating places to visit. Whether it's a far-flung plot in the countryside with simple wooden markers or the well-kept graveyard of a resplendent cathedral, when we enter old burying grounds, we experience a peace and serenity that slows down our pace. But we can also find ourselves caught up in intrigue and mystery as we read the names and dates of those interred; we try to read a story into the epitaphs written by the survivors. We wonder about the joys and struggles faced by those who lived decades - maybe centuries - ago. 

I've visited many local cemeteries and was fortunate enough to also visit a couple of European cemeteries. Here are some of my favorites.

In Munich, Germany:  The Alter Südfriedhof (Old South Cemetery), established in 1563 as a plague cemetery, is now an official Munich park. Like all old burial grounds, Alter Südfriedhof has mature trees and shrubs that create an oasis; a retreat from the traffic and bustle of the city.

Salzburg, Austria:  St. Paul's Cemetery (Petersfriedhof) is the city's oldest cemetery and one of their most popular tourist attractions. You can stand here and gaze up at catacombs that date back to antiquity.

Carthage, North Carolina (Moore County):  The Old Scotch Burying Ground was founded in 1775. This is the final resting place of immigrants from Scotland who were born in the Village of Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye. A list of all interred in this cemetery can be found here: 

https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery/2148638/old-scotch-graveyard

Southport, North Carolina:  Massive stone obelisks stand alongside worn, wooden markers in the Old Smithville Burying Grounds, founded in 1792. Some family plots are sectioned off with ornate iron fencing; some with simple wooden planks. Sheltered and cradled by the branches of stately magnolias and oaks, this graveyard is located just steps away from where the waters of the Cape Fear River meet the Atlantic Ocean.

Richmond, Virginia:  Hollywood Cemetery is the burial site of Presidents James Monroe and John Tyler, as well as the final resting place of Jefferson Davis and his family. Situated on a bluff overlooking the James River, this beautiful cemetery spans 135 acres of rolling hills and valleys, and features layers of impressive, sometimes elaborate, monuments and mausoleums. A visit to Hollywood Cemetery alone is worth a drive to Richmond.