Walk Among Legends in Westwood’s Hidden Cemetery

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by

Julian Vance

In the heart of bustling Westwood, just steps from UCLA, lies a serene resting place where Hollywood’s brightest stars find eternal peace. Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park & Mortuary, established in the 1880s and officially named in 1926, is a historic cemetery that has become a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide. Among its most visited spots is the modest crypt of Marilyn Monroe, crypt number 24 in the Corridor of Memories. This unassuming plaque has transformed into a shrine, adorned with fresh flowers, lipstick marks, and heartfelt tributes from admirers.

Key Highlights

A Glimpse into Hollywood’s Past

The cemetery’s origins trace back to the 1880s, with the establishment of Sunset Cemetery in 1905. It later became Westwood Memorial Park in 1926. While it serves as the final resting place for numerous celebrities, Marilyn Monroe’s interment in 1962 brought the cemetery into the global spotlight. Her ex-husband, Joe DiMaggio, arranged a private funeral here, choosing the location for its quietude and seclusion—a stark contrast to the fame she left behind.

A Tribute to an Icon

Monroe’s crypt is a focal point for visitors, often marked by lipstick kisses and fresh flowers, a testament to her enduring legacy. In 1992, Playboy founder Hugh Hefner purchased the crypt adjacent to hers, stating, “Spending eternity next to Marilyn is an opportunity too sweet to pass up.”

Atmosphere & Décor

A Peaceful Sanctuary Amidst the City

Despite its central location near UCLA, the cemetery offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. Visitors often describe it as a quiet piece of heaven, providing a reflective space to honor those who shaped Hollywood’s golden age.

Historic Charm

The cemetery’s design reflects its early 20th-century origins, with well-maintained pathways and crypts that exude a timeless elegance. The Corridor of Memories, where Monroe’s crypt is located, is a serene hallway lined with plaques, offering a contemplative environment for visitors.

Other Considerations

Is It Easy to Find?

The cemetery’s entrance is somewhat discreet, nestled between buildings on Glendon Avenue. Look for a small sign indicating the entrance, which leads to a peaceful courtyard and the main mausoleum.

Is It Suitable for All Ages?

While the cemetery is open to all visitors, it’s best suited for those interested in history and paying respects. The atmosphere is calm and respectful, making it appropriate for older children and adults.

Best Time to Visit

The cemetery is open daily, but visiting during weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience. Many fans choose to visit on August 5th, the anniversary of Monroe’s passing, to pay tribute.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of classic cinema, or someone seeking a moment of reflection, Marilyn Monroe’s crypt at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park offers a unique glimpse into Hollywood’s storied past. It’s a place where the past meets the present, allowing visitors to honor the legends who continue to inspire.

The Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery is a cemetery in the Westwood Village area of Los Angeles, California. It is located at 1218 Glendon Avenue in Westwood. It is the resting place of some of the entertainment industry’s greatest names. But it also contains the graves of many uncelebrated people. For example, when Marilyn Monroe died in 1962, Joe DiMaggio, responsible for Monroe’s arrangements, chose Westwood, not because of its celebrities, but because it was the resting place of Monroe’s mother’s friend, Grace Goddard, and Goddard’s aunt, Ana Lower, both of whom had cared for Monroe as a child.

Marilyn Monroe’s Crypt
 📍 1218 Glendon Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024

Website: https://pbwvmortuary.com/

Julian Vance
About the Author:

Julian Vance

Julian is a 29-year-old tech researcher who escaped the Silicon Valley bubble to document the state’s rugged northern wilderness. He focuses his work on the volcanic landscapes and the hidden alpine lakes that most coastal residents never see. His perspective is shaped by a love for high-altitude trekking and the preservation of the state’s gold-rush era ghost towns. Julian’s writing is evocative and sensory, often describing the scent of cedar and the silence of the high sierra. He balances his love for the outdoors with a deep interest in the state’s evolving viticulture.

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