Paris Authorities Launch Lottery for Burial Sites in Historic Cemeteries
Paris city officials have introduced a unique lottery offering burial plots in historic but abandoned tombs, with the condition that winners restore the sites. The initiative aims to give people the rare chance to be buried near famous personalities while preserving cemetery heritage.
Lottery Details and Application Response
Paul Simondon, deputy mayor of Paris in charge of funeral affairs, told AFP that in the first 24 hours, there were 1,000 clicks on the application forms. The lottery opened Sunday and offers 30 monuments for sale through a drawing: 10 plots each in Père Lachaise, Montparnasse, and Montmartre cemeteries.
Historic Context and Restrictions
Paris cemeteries hold 634,000 plots but have been full since the early 20th century, making it nearly impossible to be buried near notable figures such as Jim Morrison in Père Lachaise or Simone de Beauvoir in Montparnasse. Many graves are abandoned but cannot be destroyed due to their historic value.
Restoration and Purchase Conditions
Applicants must provide certificates from specialist stone-cutting companies confirming their awareness of restoration costs. Paris city officials emphasized that if restoration and purchase conditions are not met, the sale is canceled and the buyer loses their investment.
"That restoration mechanism allows families for the first time to anticipate purchasing a burial site within city limits," said Paul Simondon.
This project is a rare opportunity to both honor the memory of historically significant graves and secure a burial spot in Paris.
Author’s summary: Paris offers a lottery for burial in historic tombs, requiring winners to restore these sites, merging preservation with a rare chance for a final resting place near notable figures.