With the city of Greater London being the largest city in Europe it is little wonder that you will find an incredible number of fascinating tourist attractions. Some, such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, are amongst the most well known landmarks in the world but if you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary then London has a few hidden surprises.
If you are a fan of gothic horror movies or the black and white classics of Boris Karloff then you will simply have to visit one of London’s finest hidden gems, Highgate Cemetery. This overgrown Victorian masterpiece has all manner of grave monuments ranging from the ancient and traditional to the modernistic bust of Karl Marx which can be found in amongst the mausoleums, catacombs and multitudes of statues.
Known as the ‘Father of Communism’ Karl Marx is one of the most highly respected persons in the communist movement. He had moved to London in 1849 and when he died, in 1883, he was buried in the family plot which was a pretty simple affair. In celebration of his importance the Communist Party of Great Britain commissioned an incredible monument which was presented to the public in 1954. Although many were pleased some folk felt that his original was more suitable and some radicals even tried to blow it up in 1970.
The grave of Karl Marx is not the only celebrity grave to be found at Highgate Cemetery as there are many other famous folk from the past buried there. Included in the long list of famous graves are those of Tom Sayers, Sir Leslie Stephen, Dr S.Birch, John Lobb, Christina Rossetti, J. W. Cross, C. H. Newton, George Eliot and many, many more. You will also find the family of Charles Dickens at Highgate along with the graves of 6 Lord Mayors of London.
By the middle of the nineteenth century London found itself in desperate need of more graveyards. It was decided that seven cemeteries would be created and due to the Victorian habit of incorporating many of the influences of the British Empire into the buildings, they quickly became well known and highly regarded. The new cemeteries became known as the “Magnificent Seven” with Highate being the most incredible.
To meet the demands of the successful Victorians Highgate had their mausoleums built together in a most amazing fashion. The entrance to the Egyptian Avenue is one of the most spectacular. The avenue itself has mausoleums on either side and it leads on to the famous group of mausoleums known as the “Circle of Lebanon” which is one of the most photographed parts of the cemetery.
One of the most exciting aspects of exploring Highgate is suddenly seeing an incredible statue appear amongst the overgrown bushes and vines. Throughout the cemetery there are many examples of the most incredible memorial sculptures which include representations of the usual religious subjects and even family pets. Of special note is the grave of the famous coachman James Selby which is well worth searching for.
I have purposely been rather vague in some of the descriptions as I would not like to spoil the experience. It really is thrilling to discover something wonderful about stumbling upon something outstanding of which you were totally unaware. Of all the places to visit in London I strongly suggest that you make the effort to visit Highgate Cemetery. Even though it is not one of the top London tourist attractions it does get rather busy but to understand fully why you will have to visit it yourself.
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