Landmark

Non-Catholic Cemetery for Foreigners

Rome, Italy

Non-Catholic Cemetery for Foreigners near Rome

Rome’s Non-Catholic Cemetery began as a burial place for non-Catholic residents and visitors near the Pyramid of Cestius. Its graves hold poets, artists, political thinkers, and people from many faiths, reflecting the city’s international history.

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The Pyramid of Cestius forms a striking backdrop to a cemetery created for people who could not be buried in Catholic ground. Use of the site dates to around 1716, when permission was granted for members of the exiled Stuart court to be buried near the pyramid; this was later extended to other non-Catholics.

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Quick facts

  • The cemetery was in use by around 1716.
  • John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley are buried here.
  • It holds graves representing many faiths and nationalities.

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