Calvary Cemetery is the name of several cemeteries across the United States and beyond, but one of the most well-known is located in Queens, New York City. This historic Roman Catholic cemetery has served as the final resting place for millions of people since the 19th century and is widely recognized for its impressive landscape, skyline views, and deep religious and cultural heritage. Understanding where Calvary Cemetery is located can help visitors and researchers alike connect with the history of immigration, faith, and family that this sacred place represents.
Primary Location: Calvary Cemetery in Queens, New York
The most famous Calvary Cemetery is situated in the borough of Queens, New York City. Specifically, it lies in the neighborhood of Woodside, near the borders of Long Island City and Maspeth. This vast cemetery spans over 365 acres, making it one of the largest and most active cemeteries in the United States.
Its geographical coordinates are approximately 40.7375° N latitude and 73.9286° W longitude. Calvary Cemetery is easily accessible from various parts of New York City and is bordered by several major roads and rail lines.
Nearby Landmarks and Transportation
- Close to the Long Island Expressway (I-495)
- Near Newtown Creek, which separates Queens from Brooklyn
- Accessible via the 7 train (with nearby stops at Hunters Point and 33rd Street)
The cemetery’s location within the urban fabric of New York gives it a unique position both as a peaceful green space and as a place that reflects the city’s multicultural past.
Historical Background of Calvary Cemetery
Calvary Cemetery in Queens was established in 1848 by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York. The purpose was to provide burial grounds for the growing Catholic population of the city, especially Irish immigrants who arrived in large numbers during the mid-19th century due to famine and hardship in their homeland.
Development and Expansion
The cemetery was initially called Old Calvary and was later expanded into sections known as New Calvary. Over time, it grew into four main sections that now serve various Catholic parishes and communities. The total number of interments in Calvary Cemetery is estimated to exceed 3 million, making it one of the largest cemeteries in the world by number of burials.
Meaning of the Name Calvary
The name ‘Calvary’ refers to the hill outside Jerusalem where Jesus Christ was crucified. In Catholic tradition, naming a cemetery after Calvary signifies a connection to the sacred act of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. This religious symbolism adds spiritual meaning for those buried there and their families.
Notable Figures Buried at Calvary Cemetery
Calvary Cemetery is the final resting place of many individuals who played significant roles in American history, New York politics, and Catholic life.
Famous Interments Include:
- Mario Cuomo Former Governor of New York and father of Andrew Cuomo
- Dominick Quiet Dom Cirillo Alleged acting boss of the Genovese crime family
- Annie Moore The first immigrant processed through Ellis Island in 1892
- Joe The Boss Masseria Early Mafia boss in New York during the Prohibition era
These names represent just a small part of the cemetery’s role in documenting the lives and deaths of many notable and everyday individuals alike.
Calvary Cemetery’s Role in Catholic and Immigrant Communities
Calvary Cemetery has historically served New York City’s Catholic immigrant communities, especially those of Irish, Italian, Polish, and German descent. For generations, families chose Calvary because of its strong ties to the Church and its reverent atmosphere.
Religious Traditions and Services
- Daily and special Masses held in nearby chapels
- Graveside services and blessings conducted by Catholic clergy
- All Souls’ Day and other commemorative events for the deceased
The cemetery continues to honor these traditions while also adapting to modern needs, including cremation and green burials.
Landscaping and Architecture
The design and layout of Calvary Cemetery reflect 19th-century notions of burial as a dignified and sacred process. Rolling hills, winding paths, and religious statues contribute to the peaceful ambiance of the grounds.
Features of Interest
- Viewpoints of the Manhattan skyline Especially striking from elevated sections
- Historic mausoleums and family plots With intricate stonework and iron gates
- Religious monuments Including crucifixes, angels, and saints
These elements make Calvary Cemetery not only a burial ground but also a place of historical and artistic significance.
Other Cemeteries Named Calvary
While the Calvary Cemetery in Queens is the most famous, it’s not the only one. Many cities in the United States and other countries have cemeteries with the same name, reflecting their religious heritage.
Additional Locations Include:
- Calvary Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri A large Catholic cemetery with many historical burials
- Calvary Cemetery in Los Angeles, California Known for its mausoleums and long-standing traditions
- Calvary Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio One of the largest Catholic cemeteries in the Midwest
- Calvary Cemetery in Seattle, Washington Final resting place for many Catholic pioneers
Each of these cemeteries serves its local Catholic population, providing a place for remembrance and prayer.
How to Visit Calvary Cemetery in Queens
Calvary Cemetery is open to the public and welcomes visitors during posted hours. It is often visited not just by families but also by tourists, historians, and photographers.
Visitor Guidelines
- Maintain respectful behavior at all times
- Photography is permitted for personal use
- Gravesite visits and flower placements are allowed
- Group tours may be available during special events
Before visiting, it’s recommended to check current hours and any seasonal guidelines that may apply.
So, where is Calvary Cemetery? The most prominent Calvary Cemetery is in Queens, New York, within the borough’s Woodside neighborhood. It stands as a major Catholic burial site with deep roots in the city’s immigrant history and religious tradition. Surrounded by the sounds of the city yet offering a space of reflection and peace, Calvary Cemetery bridges the past with the present. Whether you’re searching for family history, admiring the scenery, or learning about cultural heritage, Calvary Cemetery offers a meaningful and unforgettable experience in the heart of New York City.