One of the many reasons why I love Europe so much is that I geek out over their history. It’s totally normal visit a castle in Scotland originally constructed in the 1100s, or to explore ruins in Italy that were built before Jesus existed. We just don’t have that type of documented history here in the U.S.
What I love about Boston is that it’s one of the oldest cities in the United States, so it scratches my itch for seeking out history when I travel. Due to the city’s long past, many of the old churches and buildings actually have a European feel (view my post on the Boston Public Library to see what I mean).
There are also several historic graveyards sprinkled throughout downtown that really show how old the city is. I love that downtown Boston is a lively urban hub that has these incredible little pieces of history wedged between it.
Boston Common, founded in 1634, is the country’s largest park, according to the City of Boston. It’s nearly 50 acres and has a central burying ground that is still preserved. When I was there a few years ago during a February (lesson learned, never go during that time of year), I explored it. It was so peaceful and quiet. Maybe it’s morbid, but I found these faded, disheveled gravestones fascinating. The names are so uncommon now. Some of the lives were so short. Who were they?
Here are some of my photos from the graveyard in Boston Common.
Have you ever been? Do you enjoy visiting old cemeteries, or does it creep you out?
