Destinations & Things To Do

The Top 10 Secrets of Green-Wood Cemetery In NYC

Published

3 years ago

October 13, 2022

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Green-Wood Cemetery was the second most popular tourist site in New York state by 1860, with over 500,000 visitors each year — Niagara Falls was the first. Located in Brooklyn near Prospect Park, the cemetery was founded in 1838 as one of the country’s first rural cemeteries. With over 560,000 “permanent residents,” many of whom are pretty famous, Green-Wood Cemetery has developed a reputation for being one of the most prestigious burial grounds in New York City. Its rolling landscape also helped inspire the creation of public parks in the city, including Central Park and Prospect Park. Without further delay, here are our top 10 secrets of Green-Wood Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark.

The catacombs of the Green-Wood Cemetery are opened only a few times a year to the public, for guided tours of the mysterious underground and for concerts. Access is gained by using an old-fashioned dungeon-like key, which unlocks the iron gates out front. The staff of Green-Wood cemetery calls the space “30 Vaults,” a reference to the number of vaults inside.

Located underneath a hill stretching about 150 feet, the catacombs date to the early 1850s, built as a series of family vaults in an area that was once excavated for gravel. The most famous person buried in the catacombs part of Green-Wood cemetery is Ward McAllister, the Gilded Age high society tastemaker who coined the term “The 400” to refer to the exclusive set in New York City that could fit in Mrs. Astor’s ballroom. He was not as wealthy as those he advised, so burial in the Green-Wood catacombs was a fitting endeavor for someone of his stature. Richman says McAllister would have been “quite chagrined to know that the catacombs are now locked up and access is very limited.”

On December 16, 1960, Trans World Airlines Flight 266 and United Airlines Flight 826 collided over Staten Island. While the TWA flight crashed on Staten Island, the United Airlines plane unsuccessfully attempted to reach LaGuardia Airport only to crash in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The Park Slope plane crash set fire to 10 brownstones at the intersection of Sterling Place and Seventh Avenue, along with three other stores, and a church (ironically named the Pillar of Fire Church).

In Park Slope, 84 people on the flight were killed, along with six people on the ground. The TWA crash on Staten Island killed 44 passengers and crew members. In an effort to figure out why the crash occurred, this investigation was the first to use a plane’s black box data recorder. Since DNA identification was not yet possible, the remains at the Park Slope crash were placed into three caskets labeled “Fragmentary Human Remains” and buried in unmarked grave lot number 38325, purchased by United Airlines. On December 16, 2010, on the 50th anniversary of this gruesome event, Green-Wood Cemetery dedicated a proper memorial for the victims who perished.

Until 1848, Green-Wood Cemetery was the fourth most popular place to be buried in the United States. Among the many immigrants and ordinary citizens interred there are members of prominent New York families like the Roosevelts, Pierreponts, Jeromes, and Schermerhorns.

There are also many famous residents buried there including William Meager “Boss” Tweed, the infamous corrupt politician; Henry Chadwick, the “Father of Baseball”; Horace Greeley, founder and editor of the New York Tribune; Leonard Bernstein, notable American composer and conductor; artist Jean-Michel Basquiat; Frank Morgan Wupperman, the actor who played the wizard in The Wizard Of Oz: and Samuel Morse, the inventor of the telegraph. Among these famous individuals also lie 5,000 Civil War soldiers, a large percentage of who were laid to rest in unmarked graves.

In January 2013, while a construction worker was working on an expansion of the Crematory and Columbarium, he discovered a small metal box buried in a wall. It turned out to be a time capsule from 1954 containing six, 19th-century published books on the Green-Wood Cemetery. Some titles include “A Handbook for Green-Wood” (1867) and “Green-Wood Illustrated” (1847), both written by Nehemiah Cleaveland, the cemetery’s first historian.

Despite being wrapped in plastic, the books suffered severe water damage, leaving the pages to turn into pulp. Retired Professor Anthony Cucchiara of Brooklyn College, an expert in dealing with water-damaged artifacts, was involved in the restoration process, ordering the books to be frozen to prevent any further damage. After freezing, the titles became visible, but the overall conditions were beyond salvaging. The good news is though, those same titles are not entirely out of print as copies are part of Green-Woods’ collection.

Image from Brooklyn Parrots

Since the 1970s, Green-Wood Cemetery has had a group of interesting (though quite possibly illegal) tenants, Argentinian Monk parrots (Myiopsitta monachus). Details behind how exactly the parrots got there are a bit fuzzy, but there are some interesting theories. The most popular version claims that in 1967, an unmarked crate made its way to JFK Airport where a curious worker opened it, letting free a small flock of monk parrots. A similar version of the story claims that the “curious airport employee” was actually an individual with ties to the mafia looking to profit from the crate’s contents.

While many exotic parrots have escaped into the city, the monk parrots seem to be the only ones able to survive the harsh winters. The birds made their way into residential areas, where they naturally started to annoy residents, who then naturally reported it to the authorities. Authorities not knowing what to do were told by the Argentinian government that killing them would be the easiest way to get rid of them. In 1973, a group of bird hunters hired by the US government chased the flock, killing only about half. The rest flew off to Rikers Island. The bird hunters chased them there but had to wait a day for permits to enter the premises. By the time they got there, the parrots had flown away, seeking refuge in Green-Wood Cemetery where they continue to live. Steve Baldwin of Brooklyn Parrots hosts “safaris” bringing interested visitors to the cemetery to see and learn more about New York City’s colorful, and loud residents.

Although the cemetery was never affiliated with a specific church, it strives to remain non-sectarian. The cemetery was generally seen as a Christian burial place for white Anglo-Saxon Protestants of higher social standing although the cemetery was never affiliated with a specific church. With the large number of people buried here, you wouldn’t think there would be certain criteria a dead person would have to meet in order to be allowed to rest there. One of its main regulations is that nobody who was executed for a crime, or died while incarcerated was allowed to be buried here.

Boss Tweed, however, was an exception. After he died at the Ludlow Street Prison, he was able to get around this rule. While Boss Tweed was buried in Green-Wood Cemetery, the mayor of the time, Mayor Smith Ely, refused to fly the flag at half-staff, not considering Boss Tweed worthy of the honor. As The New York Times reported in 1866, “It is the ambition of the New Yorker to live upon Fifth Avenue, take his airings in the [Central] Park and to sleep with his fathers in Green-Wood.”

In the days of the Revolutionary War, the area that Green-Wood Cemetery now occupies was the site of a major battle in 1776: The Battle of Brooklyn, also known as the Battle of Long Island. The first major battle fought after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this area was strategically important in defending New York.

After a successful attempt to drive the Continental Army out of Manhattan, the British forced the Patriots to retreat to Brooklyn Heights. On August 27, 1776, in an attempt to capture Brooklyn Heights, the British attacked American pickets defending the local Red Lion Inn, commencing the Battle of Brooklyn. However, not to be defeated or slaughtered on the battlefield, Brigadier General Williams Alexander Sterling and the Delaware Regiment made a fighting retreat, and against all odds made it safely across Gowanus Creek with only 2 men killed and 24 missing. The Altar to Liberty in Green-Wood, located at the highest point in Brooklyn, the top of Battle Hill, is dedicated to the Battle of Brooklyn. The monument is the Roman goddess Minerva laying a wreath on top of an altar. Additionally, each year, Green-Wood holds a reenactment of the Battle Brooklyn, honoring the cemetery’s historic past.

Designed in the late Revival Gothic style by Richard Upjohn and his son Richard M. Upjohn, the Brownstone Gate’s arches were built between 1861 and 1863 during the Civil War. Richard Senior is remembered for designing Trinity Church on Wall Street, as well as being the first president of the American Institution of Architects. Richard Junior is interred at Green-Wood.

Made of Brownstone, this gate combines three pinnacle towers and two pointed-arch entrances. Decorated with Gothic tracery and sandstone reliefs depicting biblical and allegorical scenes, the entrance to the cemetery stands tall and strong. Finally, on either side of the arches are two pavilions for a visitors center and cemetery office.

Given the sheer amount of individuals interned at Green-Wood Cemetery and its almost 200-year history, the monuments, mausoleums, sculptures, and tombstones at Green-Wood represent a wide variety of architectural and artistic styles. Most mausoleums on site are built in the Classical style, featuring columns, but there is also a large number of Gothic-inspired mausoleums as well. Others resemble ornate, medieval chapels, and there are even Egyptian-inspired monuments, especially obelisks.

There are also many sculptures across the entire 478 acres, some part of specific tombs, others more decorative. One statue, in particular, sparked a controversy: Civic Virtue. Originally unveiled as part of a monumental fountain in City Hall Park in 1922, the sculpture group was intended to be an allegorical representation of Virtue triumphing over Treachery and Corruption. The problem was that Virtue (a man) was standing over and defeating Vice in the form of female mermaids, coming off as oppressive to women. The statue moved to Queens in 1941 only to be met with a new wave of feminists who took issue with it as well, ultimately leading the sculpture to be “banned” to Green-Wood on December 15, 2012.

The architectural firm of Warren & Wetmore has left its mark across the city, designing some of the city’s most prominent buildings in the early 20th century, including Grand Central Terminal and Chelsea Piers. The Green-Wood Chapel stands alongside those famed buildings.

This Gothic Revival-style chapel was built in 1911 and designed by Warren & Wetmore. The chapel was inspired by the Tom Tower, a famous bell tower in Oxford, England characterized by an octagonal lantern and notable dorm. Inside, Green-Wood Cemetery’s chapel, there is a beautiful, large stained glass window, and a chandelier suspended under a rib-vaulted ceiling.

Next, check out 10 famous people buried in cemeteries across New York City!

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Destinations & Things To Do

Spain’s Domestic Travel Surge: Top National Destinations for July Long Weekend

Published

9 hours ago

July 21, 2025

the Editor

Spain’s domestic travel surge has taken center stage this July, as Spanish residents opt overwhelmingly for getaways within their own borders. Fueled by the long weekend around July 25, traditionally marked by the Feast of Saint James, travel activity is peaking from major hubs like Madrid, Galicia, and the Basque Country.

According to booking insights from online travel giant eDreams, sun-drenched coastal spots and vibrant cities are attracting the lion’s share of attention. The data reveals strong interest in both traditional beach retreats and cultural urban escapes, reflecting a summer trend that blends relaxation with exploration.

Beachfront Bliss and Urban Adventures Dominate the Weekend

Coastal Escapes Lead the Rankings

As temperatures rise and vacation days align with the extended weekend, destinations like Palma de Mallorca, Tenerife, Ibiza, Málaga, Menorca, Alicante, and Gran Canaria top the list for domestic beach travel. These locations remain perennial favorites thanks to their combination of warm climates, iconic coastlines, and dynamic leisure offerings.

eDreams data points to a strong correlation between city of departure and destination type. Travelers from Madrid and northern Spain are most drawn to coastal locales, looking to unwind along the Balearic and Canary Islands or on the Mediterranean coast.

City Breaks Still in High Demand

Major cities aren’t left behind. Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Sevilla continue to draw visitors seeking culture, cuisine, and history. These urban destinations are ideal for travelers seeking quick yet enriching weekend trips without leaving the country.

This urban trend underlines the growing popularity of short-format travel that combines accessibility with rich cultural experiences — ideal for the limited timeframe of a holiday bridge.

Where Travelers Are Coming From — and Going

Key Departures and Arrivals

The long weekend holiday sees travelers departing primarily from Santiago de Compostela, La Coruña, Vigo, Madrid, and Bilbao. The same cities — especially those in Galicia — are also receiving a notable influx of travelers, with Santiago de Compostela emerging as a significant hub due to its religious and historical significance during the Feast of Saint James.

Visitors enjoying the thermal pools at Termas de Outariz in Spain

In fact, the influx of domestic and international tourists to Galicia underscores the symbolic and cultural importance of this region during late July. International visitors also show interest, with travelers from Germany, the United Kingdom, and France arriving to take part in the festivities and summer atmosphere.

Top Destinations Based on eDreams Bookings

Top National Destinations	Top International Destinations
Palma de Mallorca	Paris
Tenerife	London
Ibiza	Lisbon
Málaga	Rome
Madrid	–
Barcelona	–

Planning Ahead or Booking Last-Minute?

Booking Habits Vary by Region

One of the more revealing trends from the eDreams analysis is the mixed approach to planning. While some travelers booked their trips more than two months in advance, others waited until just weeks — or even days — before departure.

For instance, 46% of travelers headed to Vigo and 39% of those traveling to La Coruña made their reservations within the last month. Meanwhile, a more organized 25% of visitors to Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela had confirmed plans over two months prior.

Spain’s Vigo port with Cíes Islands

Short-Term and Spontaneous Travel on the Rise

This dual behavior reflects a broader shift in travel habits, where flexibility is key. With platforms like eDreams offering dynamic packages and real-time availability, travelers are empowered to make quick decisions without sacrificing choice or quality.

Whether meticulously planned or spontaneously booked, the July long weekend proves that Spain’s passion for local travel remains strong. From serene coastlines to buzzing cities, domestic destinations are thriving this season.

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Destinations & Things To Do

Where are these tastemakers travelling to this summer? – Emirates Woman

Published

11 hours ago

July 21, 2025

Aminath Ifasa

In this Wanderlust feature, we ask five tastemakers what their summer plans are. From revealing their top travel wishlist destinations, to insights on what their summer travelling plans looks like, these ladies take us on a journey into a high-summer. Along with picturesque travel inspo, they also reveal what they’re packing for their trips – for the ultimate summer inspo guide.

Her Excellency Khawla Al Serkal | Director General – Sharjah Ladies Club (Slc)

This is The Travel Issue – which locations are top of your travel list?

Cannes, Lugano, and Lake Como are at the top of my travel list. Cannes is always captivating – with its effortless blend of elegance, seaside charm, and cultural vibrancy, it’s the perfect place to immerse myself in art, film, and French Riviera glamour. Lugano offers a peaceful escape where Swiss precision meets Italian soul – its lakeside beauty and Alpine views make it a serene yet sophisticated destination. And Lake Como, with its timeless romance, historic villas, and calm waters, is simply a dream. Together, these places reflect the kind of travel I love – elegant, inspiring, and deeply rejuvenating.