On the last Friday of the month, with November 26 and December 30 remaining this year and open for booking, visitors journey back in time through 150 years of history.
Cemetery tour guide Mark Bundy says he’s often asked who’s the most important person buried at Rookwood Cemetery?
“That’s always an easy question to answer because there are over one million important people buried here, all with their stories to tell,” he said.
Tours start with videos on Rookwood’s early beginnings, the railway which used to run through Rookwood from Mortuary Station and the hundreds of pauper graves of WWI soldiers.
Visitors will also see The Circle of Love, a beautiful area that honours children in the 19th century; Martyrs Memorial, a moving tribute to those who lost their lives in Holocaust; Saint Athanasios Greek Church, Australia’s only Greek Church in a cemetery; Chapel and Mausoleum of Eternal Rest, newly refurbished and boasting amazing views; and The Cottage, the original office of the former Independent Trust.
A visit to the gravesites of some of Sydney’s notables, including John Fairfax, Bea Miles and the gypsy Sterio family (over 100 Romani gypsy convicts were transported to Australia is 1790) is included as well as fascinating facts on how burial practices have changed through history.
“Walking tours are available on request but you’ll see more when you bring your own vehicle,” Mark said.
On offer for three hours and starting at the All Souls Chapel at 9am, tours can be booked by calling 8575 8100 or tours@rookwoodcemetery.com.au.
