Knockbreda Old and New Cemetery
Found covering a long, sloping hill between Church Road and Saintfield Road in south Belfast, Knockbreda Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in the city. It now numbers between 5000-6000 plots, around and below Knockbreda Parish Church.
The church was built in 1737, so what can be refered to as the old graveyard was probably first used for burials a few years later. The entire graveyard, old and new, contains a wealth of architecture, art and history revealing a bygone age. Huge mausoleums are dotted around the church. This is probably the best selection of these ancient structures anywhere in Ulster.
The old cemetery at Knockbreda was the fashionable place for the notable/wealthy/influencial families of Belfast to be buried. It was veruy much in keeping with their lofty positions! Even in death they remained looking down and over others in the city.
Architect Sir Charles Lanyon lies here under a massive headstone designed by himself. Scattered throughout the grounds are a selection of military men, doctors, merchants, leading families and indeed ordinary work people from the parish.
The newer section of the cemetery lies below and outside the church wall. Most graves here date from- 1900 onwards. There are approximatley 26 Commonwealth War dead here. That of course is not the whole picture. Many families chose to bury their military relatives in family graves. This lower newer section has the full cross section of Belfast families. Many grave plots harbour tragic stories.

Knockbreda cemetery is a fascinating place and a must visit place for anyone seeking an insight into Belfast's past.

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