Glasgow Necropolis

Glasgow Necropolis

The Necropolis has been described as a ‘unique representation of Victorian Glasgow, built when Glasgow was the second city of the empire. It reflects the feeling of confidence and wealth and security of that time.’ 

It is a memorial to the merchant patriarchs of the City and contains the remains of almost every eminent Glaswegian of its day. Monuments designed by leading Glaswegian architects including Alexander ‘Greek’ Thompson, Bryce, Hamilton and Mackintosh adorn it.  Their designs are executed by expert masons and sculptors who contributed ornate and sculptural detail of the finest quality.

The Necropolis remains one of the most significant cemeteries in Europe, exceptional in its contribution to the townscape, its symbolic relationship to Glasgow Cathedral and to the medieval heart of the City.  It is a major attraction to visitors from the UK and oversees. 

It is also a ‘park’ valued by Glaswegian’s for study. On a clear day looking west, one may see the valley of the Clyde bounded by the hills of Cowal, Kyle and Cunninghame.

On this webpage you can read about the history of Glasgow Necropolis and find details of the Necropolis Heritage trail.

If you visit the Necropolis you can use the map available to download here. It will take you approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to follow the Heritage Trail from the black gates to the Jewish Section and back again.  Glasgow Necropolis Heritage trail - further information

Location
Glasgow Necropolis
Castle Street
(Main Gates are Behind St Mungos's Mungo's Museum of Religous Life and Art)

Opening Times
Open from 7.00am till dusk daily 

Facilities

• The park is patrolled regularly by the Ranger Service.
• Glasgow Necropolis Historical Tours:
  Glasgow City Council, Land and Environmental Services, Park Rangers lead tours of Glasgow Necropolis.  To book a tour call:  0141 287 5064

Local Facilities
Restaurant & Toilet Facilities are available at the St Mungo Museum of Religous Life and Art

History
There are many interpretations of the origin of the name Glasgow, the most common being ‘the dear green place’. However many scholars have argued that Glasgow actually means ’the place of the grey rock’ – being the Fir Park, now known as Glasgow Necropolis. 

This site is as old as Glasgow itself and overlooks the Molindinar stream where St Mungo baptised his Christian converts in the 6th century.

The site of the Glasgow Necropolis also played an integral part of the history of the medieval City of Glasgow.

Further Information on the history of Glasgow Necropolis