Cimetière De Montoie

Cimetière de Montoie: Complete Visitor Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Lausanne’s Historical Heritage

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Cimetière de Montoie, located in the western part of Lausanne, Switzerland, is more than a cemetery—it is a living testament to the city’s multicultural history, architectural innovation, and environmental values. Originally established in response to Lausanne’s urban expansion in the early 20th century, this garden cemetery has evolved into a tranquil public space that balances commemoration, reflection, and biodiversity. Blending curvilinear paths, lush landscaping, and significant monuments, Cimetière de Montoie welcomes visitors seeking an enriching experience amid Lausanne’s vibrant urban fabric.

This detailed guide covers everything you need to know for your visit, including up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing policies, accessibility, notable graves and monuments, practical tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for quiet green space, Cimetière de Montoie offers a meaningful perspective on Lausanne’s heritage.

For the latest updates and events, consult the official Lausanne city website, the Centre funéraire de Montoie, and the local cultural calendar at leprogramme.ch.

Introduction
Historical Context and Development
Architectural and Landscape Features
Notable Burials and Monuments
Social and Cultural Significance
Environmental Stewardship
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
How to Get There & Nearby Attractions
Practical Tips for Visitors
Visitor Etiquette
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media Suggestions
Additional Resources
Summary and Final Tips
References and Useful Links

Historical Context and Development

Cimetière de Montoie was established in the early 20th century, officially opening in 1922, to address the growing needs of Lausanne’s population as older cemeteries, such as Cimetière du Bois-de-Vaux, reached capacity. The site was selected for its hillside location in the Montoie district, allowing for a harmonious integration of the cemetery with the natural landscape. Later redevelopment in the 1970s, including work by landscape architect A.-F. Desarzens and architect Frédéric Brugger, transformed the cemetery into a modern, inclusive, and environmentally conscious space (Wikipedia; RouteYou).

The cemetery’s design reflects the ideals of the garden cemetery movement: instead of rigid grids, it features gently curving paths, terraces, and lush plantings. Select historic graves from earlier cemeteries were preserved and integrated, providing a tangible link to Lausanne’s past (notrehistoire.ch).

Architectural and Landscape Features

Cimetière de Montoie distinguishes itself through its organic, park-like design. Unlike the geometric layout of Bois-de-Vaux, Montoie’s terraces and elliptical pathways follow the natural contours of the hillside, creating a sense of peace and continuity. Mature trees, flowering shrubs, and carefully maintained lawns provide shade and seasonal color.

Notable features include:

Columbaria: Circular arrangements for the storage of funeral urns, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life.
Jardin du Souvenir (Garden of Remembrance): A semicircular area for the scattering of ashes, marked by elegant steles (Jardin du Souvenir).
Family Mausoleums and Sculpted Headstones: These display a range of artistic styles, from Art Deco to religious symbolism, crafted by local stonemasons (Marbrerie Bois-de-Vaux).
Symbolic Motifs: Angels, laurel wreaths, and weeping willows are common, reflecting themes of hope and remembrance.

Notable Burials and Monuments

While Cimetière de Montoie is less internationally renowned than Bois-de-Vaux, it is the final resting place for many significant local figures:

Civic Leaders: Former mayors, city council members, and business leaders who shaped Lausanne’s development.
Artists and Academics: Painters, writers, and university professors whose graves often feature unique artistic elements.
War Memorials: Dedicated sections honor Swiss soldiers, Red Cross workers, and refugees affected by world conflicts, with annual commemorative ceremonies.

These monuments offer a window into Lausanne’s civic and cultural evolution and are often highlighted in occasional guided tours (leprogramme.ch).

Cimetière de Montoie is a secular, non-consecrated space, reflecting Lausanne’s commitment to inclusivity and multiculturalism. The adjacent Centre funéraire de Montoie provides facilities for all types of ceremonies—religious, secular, or private—serving the city’s diverse population.

The cemetery is also a site for cultural events, educational programs, and public commemorations, reinforcing its role as a place of collective memory and community engagement (leprogramme.ch).

Environmental Stewardship

Maintenance at Cimetière de Montoie follows principles of sustainability. Since 2010, synthetic chemicals have been eliminated in favor of environmentally friendly practices, encouraging biodiversity and making the site a haven for local flora and fauna. The preservation of mature trees and green spaces not only enhances the beauty of the cemetery but also aligns with Lausanne’s vision for urban ecological responsibility (lausanne.ch).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

April to September: 06:30–20:00
October to March: 07:30–19:00

The funeral office is open Monday to Friday, 07:30–11:45 and 13:30–17:00. Hours may vary on holidays—always confirm via the official website.

Tickets and Entry

Admission: Free of charge, no tickets required.
Guided Tours: Offered occasionally by local historical societies; inquire at the cemetery office or check leprogramme.ch.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Main paths are wide and gently sloped, suitable for visitors with limited mobility. Some older sections may have uneven terrain.
Facilities: Restrooms are available near the entrance and at the funeral center. Benches and shaded areas are found throughout the grounds.
Public Transport: Bus and metro lines connect the cemetery to Lausanne city center; the nearest stops are a short walk away.

How to Get There & Nearby Attractions

Address: Chemin du Capelard 5, 1007 Lausanne

By Public Transport: Lausanne’s bus and metro network offers regular service to the Montoie district.
By Car: Limited parking is available; public transport is recommended.
On Foot: The cemetery is within walking distance of parks and the city center.

Nearby Attractions:

Cimetière du Bois-de-Vaux: Another renowned garden cemetery in Lausanne.
Olympic Museum: Showcasing the history of the Olympic Games.
Musée de l’Elysée: Dedicated to photography.
Ouchy Lakeside: Scenic promenades and lake views.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather; the site is mostly outdoors.
Bring Water: Drinking fountains may not be available inside the cemetery.
Maps: Available at the entrance or adjacent funeral center; online resources can assist with planning.
Safety: Lausanne is safe, but standard precautions apply; avoid visiting after dark.

Visitor Etiquette

Maintain Silence: Respect the peace and privacy of mourners.
No Littering: Use designated bins; keep the grounds clean.
Respect Monuments: Do not walk over graves or disturb decorations.
Photography: Permitted for personal use but avoid ceremonies and respect privacy (Happy to Wander).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: 06:30–20:00 (April–September), 07:30–19:00 (October–March). Confirm on the official site.

Q: Is there an entrance fee or ticket?
A: No, entry is free.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, for personal use; avoid photographing ceremonies or mourners.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, by local societies—check leprogramme.ch.

Q: Is the cemetery accessible for those with mobility challenges?
A: Main paths are accessible; some older sections may be uneven.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

Aerial photographs highlighting the cemetery’s terraced layout (alt: “Aerial view of Cimetière de Montoie in Lausanne”)
Photos of the Jardin du Souvenir and columbaria (alt: “Jardin du souvenir semicircular steles at Cimetière de Montoie”)
Interactive maps showing public transport routes and nearby attractions

Additional Resources

Summary and Final Tips

Cimetière de Montoie is an essential destination for visitors interested in Lausanne’s cultural, social, and environmental heritage. Its inviting design, accessible location, and commitment to inclusivity make it a peaceful yet vibrant part of the city. Whether exploring its artistic monuments, attending a commemorative event, or simply seeking a quiet retreat, you’ll find much to reflect on in this unique landscape.

For event updates, guided tours, and personalized itineraries, consider downloading the Audiala mobile app and following official city and tourism channels. By respecting the site’s solemnity and embracing sustainable travel practices, you help preserve Cimetière de Montoie’s serene atmosphere for future generations.