Tomb of Grisélidis Réal

The Tomb of Grisélidis Réal is a headstone in the Cimetière des Rois, the "Cemetery of Kings", in Geneva's Plainpalais district. It marks the resting place of the Swiss writer, painter and sex workers' rights activist who lived from 1929 to 2005. The grave suits visitors looking for a less obvious side of Geneva: a story about who the city chooses to honour among its notable figures.

Who was Grisélidis Réal?

Réal wrote books, among them "La Passe imaginaire", and also painted. For years she spoke out publicly for the rights and dignity of sex workers, a trade she practised herself and wrote about. She died in 2005 at the age of 75. Her name now appears elsewhere in Geneva too. On 18 May 2026 the city inaugurated a square named after her in the Pâquis district, and in 2024 her name was among those proposed for streets honouring women.

Why does this grave draw attention?

The cemetery is nicknamed the "Genevan Pantheon". Burial there is reserved for people who raised Geneva's profile, as well as magistrates. Réal's interment therefore needed a decision from city authorities. She had asked to be buried here, and the wish was granted in 2009 after a heated controversy. Critics challenged the city council's decision, while supporters pointed to her standing in Geneva life as an author and campaigner. Commentators also noted how few women lie in this prestigious cemetery.

Her grave stands roughly thirty metres from that of John Calvin, the best-known tomb on the site. The proximity of the two became a symbol of the debate.

What else is there to see?

The cemetery is small, with about 350 graves, and can be walked in an hour. Besides Calvin, burials include:

• Jorge Luis Borges, the Argentine writer,
• Sophie Dostoevsky, daughter of the Russian novelist,
• Émile Jaques-Dalcroze, the musician and educator,
• James Fazy and Adrien Lachenal, politicians,
• Sergio Vieira de Mello, the UN diplomat.

Réal's own marker is a modest headstone. Official sources give no plot number, so check the cemetery layout on site or on the City of Geneva website.

How do you get there?

The cemetery lies in Plainpalais, in central Geneva, southwest of the Old Town. The coordinates are about 46.2021 N, 6.1360 E. From Cornavin station it is a walk of roughly fifteen minutes, or take a tram towards Plainpalais. Entry is free.

When should you visit?

Daylight hours in fine weather work best, when the paths are bright. This is a place of remembrance, so keep voices low, stay off the graves and photograph respectfully.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Grisélidis Réal buried?

In the Cimetière des Rois in Plainpalais, about thirty metres from John Calvin's tomb.

When was she buried there?

Her remains were moved there in 2009, several years after she died in 2005. The decision sparked a public dispute in Geneva.

Is the cemetery free to enter?

Yes. It is open to the public at no charge.

Who else is buried at the cemetery?

Among others, Calvin, Borges, Sophie Dostoevsky, Émile Jaques-Dalcroze and Sergio Vieira de Mello.