Photo : Claire Dorn
The cemetery, a place of life
Three professionals share their experiences and perspectives on the place of the cemetery in the city, the new functions it hosts, and the issues related to its evolution
Sciences Po (Paris 7th)
About
Three professionals share their experiences and perspectives on the place of the cemetery in the city, the new functions it hosts, and the issues related to its evolution: how can we reconcile a place of memory, heritage preservation, biodiversity, and the emergence of new uses (exhibitions, cultural tourism, etc.)?
- Benoît Gallot is the curator of the Père-Lachaise cemetery
- Marion Waller served as advisor for funeral affairs to the Mayor of Paris for two and a half years. She is currently the Director General of the Pavillon de l'Arsenal
- Inès Massonie is the head of exhibitions and audiences at POUSH
Our take on this event
Far from being static monuments, Paris cemeteries are transforming into vibrant, multifaceted sanctuaries that blend history with urban ecology. Experts in funerary design and public culture lead a compelling conversation on how these green spaces are embracing new creative functions. It is a rare chance to look at the city’s quietest corners through a modern and surprisingly lively lens.
Le cimetière, lieu de vi(ll)e is a talk taking place on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 17:00 to 18:30 at Sciences Po, located in the 7th arrondissement. This event explores the evolving role of urban cemeteries, balancing their traditional function as places of remembrance with the rise of biodiversity and new cultural usages like exhibitions. Three experts discuss how these spaces adapt to contemporary city life. The event is completely free of charge and specifically adapted to be accessible to blind or visually impaired attendees, ensuring an inclusive experience for everyone interested in the future of urban funeral landscapes.
Three professionals share their expertise on the transformation of cemetery spaces within the modern city. Benoît Gallot, curator of the Père-Lachaise cemetery, Marion Waller, Director General of the Pavillon de l'Arsenal, and Inès Massonie, head of exhibitions at POUSH, examine how to reconcile historical preservation and memory with environmental needs and new urban functions.
The discussion takes place on November 4, 2026, from 17:00 to 18:30 at Sciences Po, 28 rue de l'Université, 75007 Paris. Admission is free. The venue is fully equipped to be accessible to blind or visually impaired guests.
