Calvary Cemetery: a graveyard facing New York’s skyscrapers
Calvary Cemetery is one of New York's largest cemeteries. An unusual place to visit for its striking views of the Manhattan skyline.
What You Should Know About Calvary Cemetery
- Calvary Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the world. It sits on Greenpoint Avenue in Woodside, Queens, New York.
- The cemetery opened in 1848, and for more than 150 years, nearly 3 million people have been laid to rest here. This Catholic cemetery is administered by St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It was built to handle the growing number of Catholic burials in New York. Many graves date back to the 19th century.
- The name refers to Mount Calvary, the site where Christ was crucified according to Christian tradition.
- What makes Calvary Cemetery truly special is its location in Queens, which offers extraordinary views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s a unique way to experience the city, away from the usual tourist routes.
What to See at Calvary Cemetery
- The Manhattan views are a photographer’s dream. Gravestones blend seamlessly with the skyscrapers, creating timeless images. Visit in the morning to catch the sun on the skyline. Winter sunsets here are particularly striking, with dramatic light across Manhattan’s towers.
- Several paths wind respectfully through the cemetery’s grounds. The cemetery is divided into four main sections named after Saint Callixtus, Saint Agnes, Saint Sebastian, and Saint Domitilla, referencing the Roman catacombs. Also worth seeing: the chapel in the first section, built in 1908 by architect Raymond F. Almirall.
- Film fans will recognize this place: the funeral scene of Don Vito Corleone in The Godfather was filmed here. You’re walking in the footsteps of Marlon Brando. In Midnight Cowboy (1969), Dustin Hoffman’s character visits his father’s grave. More recently, in 2014, the cemetery appeared in the thriller John Wick, starring Keanu Reeves and Willem Dafoe. John Wick’s character also pays respects at his wife’s tomb. Calvary Cemetery wasn’t chosen by chance: the view of New York connects the past with grief and memory.
- Calvary Cemetery also appears in several episodes of the TV series Person of Interest. You’ll feel like you’re stepping right into the films.
Practical Information
- Address: 49-42 Greenpoint Avenue, Woodside, Queens, New York.
- Subway: 46 St-Bliss St (Line 7).
- Hours: The cemetery is open daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm.