Calvary Cemetery

Calvary Cemetery Los Angeles: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Calvary Cemetery in Los Angeles is one of the city’s most significant and storied Catholic burial grounds. Established in the mid-19th century, it not only serves as a sacred final resting place for thousands—including pioneers, civic leaders, and entertainment legends—but also stands as a testament to Los Angeles’s rich multicultural heritage and evolving urban identity. With its distinctive architecture, ongoing spiritual traditions, and deep historical connections, Calvary Cemetery invites visitors to explore a unique intersection of faith, history, and community.

Whether you’re interested in genealogy, local history, or spiritual reflection, this comprehensive guide covers Calvary Cemetery’s history, notable burials, visiting hours, ticket information, accessibility, special events, and travel tips.

Historical Overview of Calvary Cemetery

Origins and Early Development

Calvary Cemetery’s origins trace to the late 1840s, following the mapping of Los Angeles under Gen. Edward Ord. Originally situated near La Placita, the city’s first church, the cemetery was nestled between a creek and dam at Los Angeles’s northern edge (source). The first burials date back to the winter of 1844–45, marking a transition from the earlier Campo Santo churchyard used during Spanish colonial rule (source).

Growth, Diversity, and Community Significance

As Los Angeles expanded, Calvary Cemetery became a diverse resting place for the city’s early settlers and immigrant communities. Headstones in various languages—including English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian—reflect the multicultural identity of its interred (source). The cemetery was primarily Catholic but included Protestants, city officials, and a segregated section for Indigenous Angelenos, particularly the Kizh/Tongva people (source).

Overcrowding, Decline, and Relocation

By 1860, the original cemetery was overcrowded, prompting the city to restrict new burials by 1879. With the opening of the “New Calvary” on Whittier Boulevard in Boyle Heights in 1896, many remains were relocated. However, unclaimed graves were left behind, and the site fell into neglect and vandalism (source).

Transformation and Modern Use

After a final removal of burials in 1925, the original cemetery site became part of Cathedral High School’s grounds. The adjacent ravine is now home to Dodger Stadium (source). The old cemetery chapel was moved and now serves as part of St. Peter’s Italian Catholic Church, preserving a tangible link to the past.

Legacy and Remnants

The current Calvary Cemetery in East Los Angeles continues to honor its historical roots, serving as a vital spiritual and cultural landmark for the community. Archaeological findings and interpretive plaques help visitors connect with the city’s layered history (source).

Notable Burials and Historical Figures

Calvary Cemetery is the final resting place for many individuals who have shaped Los Angeles’s history:

Joseph Chapman: The city’s first English-speaking resident.
Governor Pío Pico and María Pico: The last Mexican governor of Alta California and his wife.
Andrés Pico: Hero of the Battle of San Pascual.
Abel Stearns: Influential ranchero and businessman.
The Avila, Coronel, Dominguez, Yorba, Boyle, Bernard, and Leonis families: Key contributors to the city’s development (source).

In total, approximately 10,000 burials were recorded over its first five decades (source).

Modern Calvary Cemetery: Architecture and Spiritual Life

Catholic Heritage and Architecture

Now located at 4201 East 2nd Street, the “New Calvary” was consecrated in 1896 and is operated by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The cemetery features significant religious architecture, most notably:

All Souls Chapel: Completed in 1902 in Gothic Revival style, inspired by St. Giles Church in England (source).
Main Mausoleum: Built in 1929, designed by Ross Montgomery, it boasts Italian Romanesque Revival architecture, stained glass, and hand-painted ceilings (source).
Stations of the Cross: Colorful statues along the main drive serve as devotional focal points, especially during Lent and November.

Spiritual and Community Events

The cemetery hosts daily Mass, annual outdoor Masses on All Souls Day and Memorial Day, and communal devotions. These observances reinforce Calvary Cemetery’s role as a living part of Catholic spiritual life (source).

Prominent Figures and Mausoleums

Calvary Cemetery is renowned for its connection to Hollywood and civic history, with the graves of:

John, Ethel, and Lionel Barrymore: The legendary acting family (source).
Irene Dunne: Beloved actress and five-time Academy Award nominee.
Pola Negri: Silent film star.
King Baggot: Early film star and director.
Bishop Thomas James Conaty and Archbishop John Joseph Cantwell: Pioneers in Catholic education and leadership (source).
Edward Doheny, Henry Gage, Lou Costello, Hal Roach: Influential in business, politics, and entertainment.
Leno LaBianca and Jack Dragna: Figures in Los Angeles’s darker history.

Family mausoleums and dedicated memorials highlight the city’s diversity and the cemetery’s inclusive ethos.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; some sources list 6:00 PM closure—confirm with the official website.
Admission: Free; donations for maintenance are appreciated.
Guided Tours: Occasionally offered by appointment or during special events.

Directions and Accessibility

Address: 4201 East 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90063 (sometimes listed as 4200 East First Street).
Parking: On-site, with accessible spaces available (source).
Public Transit: Served by Metro bus lines.
Accessibility: ADA-compliant; paved paths, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly facilities (source).

Visitor Tips

Maps: Available at the cemetery office.
Dress and Conduct: Dress modestly and maintain respect for ongoing services.
Photography: Allowed for personal use; be discreet and avoid disruptions during ceremonies.
Sun Protection: Limited shaded areas—bring hats, sunscreen, and water in warm weather.
Researching Graves: Use Find a Grave or inquire with staff for assistance.

Events and Annual Observances

All Souls Day / Memorial Day: Outdoor Masses and community gatherings.
Father’s Day Rosary: Held across Archdiocese cemeteries, often live-streamed (source).
Stations of the Cross: Popular during Lent and November.

Check the official website for the latest event schedules.

Nearby Attractions

Mission San Gabriel Arcángel: Key site in California’s mission history.
Boyle Heights: Historic neighborhood known for cultural diversity.
Evergreen Cemetery and Angelus-Rosedale Cemetery: Other notable burial grounds in Los Angeles (source).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Calvary Cemetery’s visiting hours?
A: Daily, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (confirm for holidays or special events).

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No; admission is free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally by appointment or during special events—contact the office to arrange.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with paved paths and accessible facilities.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, but please be discreet and respectful.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Generally not permitted to maintain sanctity and cleanliness.

Reviews and Visitor Experience

Visitors praise Calvary Cemetery’s peaceful atmosphere, beautiful grounds, and historic architecture. The main mausoleum and chapel are highlights for many. Some visitors note a need for more shaded seating and improved event logistics. The cemetery holds a 3.7-star rating from over 100 reviewers (source).

Conclusion

Calvary Cemetery is more than a burial ground—it is a living memorial to Los Angeles’s layered history, faith traditions, and multicultural evolution. Whether you are drawn by genealogy, architecture, or spiritual reflection, a visit to Calvary Cemetery promises a profound connection with the city’s past and present. Plan your visit by checking official resources for current hours and event schedules, and consider joining a guided tour for a deeper appreciation.

For updates, detailed maps, and event information, visit the official Calvary Cemetery website and follow their social media channels. To enrich your exploration, download the Audiala app for guided audio tours and more insights into Los Angeles’s historical sites.

Images and interactive maps are recommended for digital guides to enhance visitor engagement. Use descriptive alt tags such as “Calvary Cemetery Los Angeles All Souls Chapel” and “historic mausoleum Calvary Cemetery” for accessibility and SEO.