A New Gateway to History: Why Dennistoun Residents Should Explore the Glasgow Necropolis

The Necropolis, a magnificent 37-acre Victorian cemetery, is one of Europe's most significant cemeteries and a true cornerstone of Glasgow's heritage. Situated on a prominent hill just east of Glasgow Cathedral, this historic location is a massive ‘city of the dead’, commemorating over fifty thousand people.

Crucially for residents, the Necropolis is located on the eastern edge of Glasgow City Centre, and for those living in Dennistoun, this architectural marvel is about to become far more accessible.

Unlocking the East End: The New Access Plans

Currently, the primary entrance to the Necropolis is located next to Glasgow Cathedral, meaning the entire eastern side of the 37-acre Victorian graveyard has no public access.

This is set to change following the approval of an award of £210,000 specifically dedicated to creating a new east end entrance. The funding was approved by the Dennistoun Local Area Partnership.

The idea for this local access was partially sparked by responses gathered during the Dennistoun Liveable Neighbourhood & Learning Quarter Regeneration consultations. Potential entrance locations currently being consulted upon include Circus Drive or Firpark Street.

Beyond heritage access, the new entrance could also provide a useful cut through to the city. Residents could pass through the ornate main entrance bridge, known as the Bridge of Sighs (completed in 1836), and continue into the Cathedral precinct and toward the town centre.

Bridge of Sighs

Cultural Significance: A Reflection of Victorian Glasgow

The Glasgow Necropolis, which officially opened in 1833, was inspired by the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. It was designed as a picturesque garden cemetery laid out like an informal park with paths meandering up the complex topography toward the summit.

• Architectural Diversity: This "city of the dead" features an extraordinary collection of approximately 3,500 monuments, including elaborate obelisks, ornate mausoleums, and classical columns. The styles range impressively from Egyptian to Gothic and Classical. Many monuments were designed by leading architects and sculptors of the time, and the site includes Charles Rennie Mackintosh's first publicly commissioned work.
• The Burial of Giants: The cemetery was conceived for wealthy and influential members of 19th-century society, including merchants, industrialists, philanthropists, and artists. Notable figures commemorated here include the poet William Miller, who penned 'Wee Willie Winkie', and John Knox, whose 12 ft statue sits on a column at the summit, dating from 1825. The site also holds memorials to still-born children, soldiers of the Korean War, and Glaswegian recipients of the Victoria Cross.
• A Multi-Faith Landmark: The Necropolis is renowned for being one of the first multi-faith graveyards in the world. It was progressive for its time, allowing Protestants, Catholics, Quakers, and Jews to be laid to rest among the burial plots. The Jewish burial ground, established in the north-west section in September 1832, predates the official opening of the main Necropolis.

William Miller lived most of his life at No.4 Ark Lane in the Dennistoun area and was buried in the family plot at Tollcross. A public subscription erected a monument to his name in the Glasgow Necropolis.

Benefits of Exploring Your Local Green Space

For local residents, visiting the Necropolis offers more than just a history lesson:

1. Spectacular Views: Because it sits on a prominent hill, the Necropolis offers some of the best panoramic views of Glasgow. From the summit, particularly near the John Knox Monument, you can enjoy sweeping vistas that include Glasgow Cathedral, the city skyline, and the distant Campsie Fells on a clear day.
2. Wildlife Haven: Despite its urban location, the Necropolis is Glasgow’s second-largest green space. It is a hotspot for wildlife, boasting over 180 different species of flowering plants and trees. Visitors might spot wood mice, voles, or various birds, and if visiting at dusk, you may even see pipistrelle bats flitting about.
3. Free and Atmospheric: The site is open to the public and is free to visit. The eclectic mix of tombs and its layout lend the site an "ethereal, other-worldly atmosphere," making it a uniquely atmospheric place to walk.
4. Insightful Tours: Volunteer tour guides run free walking tours organized by The Friends of Glasgow Necropolis. These expert guides share fascinating tales, helping visitors understand the historical context and symbolism of the monuments.

History Right Next Door

Once the new East End entrance is open, Dennistoun residents will be situated directly next to a cluster of Glasgow's most significant historical sites, all within a few minutes' walk of the Necropolis gates:

• Glasgow Cathedral: Located adjacent to the Necropolis, this is one of Scotland's largest Christian buildings. Founded in 1197, it is particularly notable for its underground crypt.
• St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art (Religious Museum): This free-to-visit museum is adjacent to the Cathedral. It showcases a global collection of religious-themed artifacts and exhibits.
• Provand’s Lordship (The Auld Hoose): Celebrated as one of only four medieval structures still surviving in Glasgow. Built in 1471, the museum inside is furnished with 17th-century pieces.
• The Lady Well: Located to the south of the Necropolis, this holy well, also known as 'Our Lady's Well,' is an artesian spring believed to predate the city itself. Although the wellhead remains capped today, the Merchants House and City Council rebuilt it in 1835-1836.

The new east entrance will finally connect the rich history of the Necropolis with the local communities of Dennistoun, ensuring that this essential part of Glasgow’s history is enjoyed by the folk who live right on its doorstep.

Glasgow Necropolis Mausoleums