New Orleans A "Must See" City


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We had not been to New Orleans since the hurricane.  We visited here four times before the August '05 hurricane, but this was our first visit since hurricane Katrina and subsequent flood.  What most people don't realize is that the "old city" was not flooded.  The "old city" included the French Quarter, the central business district and many of the  old venerable neighborhoods that flank the "river side" (Mississippi River) west of the French Quarter.  When Lord Iberville established New Orleans in the 18th century, he was told by the native Indians to build the city on this site as it would never flood.  Over time, the city began reclaiming swamp land surrounding the "old city"; and subsequently, began building homes in areas that were below sea level.  Its these areas that eventually received up to 8 feet of water when the levees broke.

While New Orleans is still repairing its infrastructure post Hurricane Katrina, the city is showing some renewal.  There are some notable differences.  For one thing, it is very clean.  This is because a new sanitation company keeps the streets and sidewalks clean .  In years past, the "dirtiness" of the quarter was one of its hallmarks...but now it has a whole different feel.  Bourbon Street hasn't changed, but honestly we spend little time on this street...too many drunks...and its very noisy. 

The effects of the hurricane can still be seen in certain parts of the city, and we decided to travel east of the "old city" into the 9th ward where the devastation was at its worst.  There are still many homes that needed repair, but surprisingly, people are already living in these once flooded districts.  

The photos on your right are examples of the mosaics that are on display at the Ursuline Monastery, which is located a few blocks east of the Cathedral.  From an artistic point of view, these were wonderful to view.  Several hundred of these mosaics are loaned from the Vatican and will only be shown in New Orleans until November, at which time, will be returned to Italy.

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Garden District home - old South. New Orleans was home to many rich families during the 19th century.

Garden District home - old city near Mississippi

Another set of homes devastated by hurricane Katrina

One block east of the 7th Ward levee that broke during hurricane Katrina.

Symbol of St. Louis Cemetery 1

One of few tombs that had damage from Katrina... This tomb may have housed 10-15 people...note the "bubbles"

City of the Dead

Above ground burials became a necessity - this is an example of early above ground tombs

Follower reciting prayers at her tomb (beads in his right hand)

Marie Laveau tomb (voodoo queen). 3Xs are requests from followers for miracles.

map of city sections

Protestant section. Governor's first wife was protestant.

Peter Fonda sat on this statue during Easy Rider

At the Pizzaria

 

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