19th-century cemeteries

19th-century cemeteries evolved into landscaped, park-like spaces designed for public visitation and reflection, reflecting changing attitudes toward death and memorialization. They often featured elaborate gravestones, sculptures, and winding paths, transforming burial grounds into scenic, contemplative environments. This shift was influenced by the Romantic movement and a desire to honor the dead publicly, fostering community engagement. Cemeteries like Mount Auburn in Massachusetts set the standard for this aesthetic, emphasizing natural beauty, order, and accessibility. Overall, 19th-century cemeteries represent a blend of functional burial sites and cultural expressions of memory, leisure, and reverence.