Visit to Old Jewish Cemetery, Prague, Czech Republic
The Jewish cemetery in Prague is one of the most important Jewish historical sites in Europe. It dates back to the 15th century and served as the burial ground for Prague’s Jewish community for centuries. I was numb and found the cemetery to be a testament to the rich and complex history of Prague’s Jewish population. Read on to know what to see and do in one of the most special places in Prague.
It is easy to lose count of the tombstones. I was a little horrified to see the cemetery contains thousands of tombstones, many of which are densely packed due to limited space. The tombstones feature intricate carvings and inscriptions, reflecting various historical periods, artistic styles and sometimes the profession. Exploring the cemetery provided an insight into Jewish burial customs and traditions.
Prague City Tour – The Old-New Synagogue
The Jewish cemetery in Prague is the final resting place of many prominent Jewish figures, including Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel (the Maharal of Prague), who is associated with the legend of the Golem of Prague.
The Jewish cemetery has a unique atmosphere that evokes a sense of reverence and reflection. Despite its relatively small size, the cemetery’s dense layout and uneven terrain create a somber and contemplative ambiance. I found the whole experience to be deeply moving and thought-provoking.
Many visitors to the Jewish cemetery in Prague come to gain a better understanding of Jewish history, culture, and religion. Guided tours and informational materials are available to provide context and insight into the significance of the cemetery and its role in shaping Prague’s Jewish heritage.
Old Jewish cemetery in Prague
We missed entering the Old-New Synagogue. The entrance to the Jewish cemetery does not grant access to one of Prague and Europe’s most significant synagogues: the Old-New Synagogue. Dating back to 1270, it stands as the oldest active synagogue in Prague and Europe. We just saw
Built in the Gothic style, it marked one of the earliest structures of its kind in the Czech capital. Despite enduring fires, riots, and the horrors of the Jewish Holocaust, among other trials, the synagogue remains active, welcoming both worshippers and tourists. According to legend, the mythical Golem of Prague lies dormant in the synagogue’s attic, awaiting resurrection when the times demand it.
Jewish Museum in Prague
The Jewish Museum in Prague stands out as a unique institution, distributed across eight locations, including synagogues in the Jewish Quarter, the cemetery, the Roberta Guttmann Gallery, and a visitor center.
Established in 1906, the museum holds distinction as one of the oldest and most significant Jewish museums globally. Its mission is to meticulously document the history of the Jewish people in the Czech Republic, safeguarding valuable artifacts and documentation while perpetuating the traditions and customs of Jewish heritage.
Unique Jewish Cemetery in World
The Prague Jewish Cemetery stands apart from conventional burial grounds. Unlike other renowned cemeteries in European capitals, it lacks grand monuments and meticulously tended gardens. Its uniqueness lies in its status as the most densely populated cemetery in Europe, and perhaps the world.
For more than three centuries, spanning back to the middle of the 15th century, it served as the sole burial ground for Prague’s Jewish community. Located in Josefov, the historic Jewish quarter of Prague, the cemetery saw the interment of approximately 100,000 individuals throughout its long history.
Pinkas Synagogue Prague
We were let in to the cemetery through Pinkas Synagogue, which was used for worship last time in the 1940s. This is the second oldest in Prague, dating back to 1535. It forms part of the Jewish Museum, hosting temporary exhibitions depicting the life of Jews in Prague and their tragic history.
Today, the synagogue serves as a poignant memorial to the Jewish and Czech victims of the Nazis. Its walls bear the handwritten names and surnames of 80,000 Holocaust victims, Bohemian and Moravian victims of Nazis.
Additionally, the synagogue houses letters from prisoners of Terezin, a concentration camp near Prague, offering a somber reminder of the atrocities endured. Excursions to Terezin from Prague allow visitors to explore this dark chapter of history first-hand.
There is a room which displays children’s art. The sights depicted by the little hands choked me with emotions. Tender lives cut short. All drawings there were made by children captured in Theresienstadt concentration camp during WWII. No photography was permitted here and for once I was glad it wasn’t permitted! These are feelings that are not to be posted around and so right they are!
Crowded tombstones in Jewish Cemetery Prague
Well Known People buried in the Cemetery
Within the 12,000 tombstones of this cemetery lie the resting places of notable figures from Jewish culture and Prague’s history. These graves attract countless tourists and are highlights of the cemetery, often included in tours of the Jewish Quarter. Among the distinguished individuals interred here are:
- Mordecai Maisel: A prominent leader in 16th-century Prague, he was instrumental in the construction of the city’s synagogue bearing his name, a site often visited on guided tours of the area.
- David Oppenheim: A renowned 18th-century rabbi of Prague.
- Judah Loew: Known as “the Maharal of Prague,” he was not only a rabbi but also a Jewish philosopher credited with the creation of the legend of the Jewish Golem.
- David Gans: An esteemed Jewish historian and astronomer, whose tombstone features the first use of the Star of David as a symbol of the Jewish community.
12,000 Gravestones at Old Jewish Cemetery Prague
From here we were led to the cemetery where 12,000 gravestones are visible. Such a tiny space and so many gravestones… but in reality, the actual figures are 100,000 burials. According to Jewish tradition old graves are not destroyed. And with no new land available they were forced to place layers on layers. Some of them had twelve layers of graves.
Plan to have a meaningful and respectful experience while visiting the Jewish cemetery in Prague. Visit in early mornings or late afternoons may offer a quieter experience. I found it quite crowded when we visited at around ten in the morning. Once inside the cemetery, I took time to explore and reflect and saw for myself densely packed tombstones, uneven terrain. The inscriptions on the tombstones, the intricate carvings, symbols, and decorations added historical significance of the place.
The Jewish cemetery is located in the Josefov (Jewish Quarter) of Prague’s Old Town. The address is Široká 23/3, 110 00 Josefov, Prague 1.
12,000 Gravestones at Old Jewish Cemetery Prague
To enter the Jewish cemetery and other sites in the Jewish Quarter, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. Tickets typically provide access to multiple sites, including the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Pinkas Synagogue, the Klausen Synagogue, the Maisel Synagogue, and the Ceremonial Hall. We visited Old Jewish Cemetery and the Pinkas Synagogue. Visit to the cemetery was a very touching experience for us.
A word of concern here: While visiting the Jewish cemetery, it is important that we maintain a respectful demeanor. It is a sacred site for the Jewish community and a place of remembrance. Avoid loud conversations, refrain from touching the tombstones, and follow any posted guidelines or instructions.
Tombstones in Old Jewish Cemetery Prague
The tombstones of the Prague Jewish Cemetery too tell stories. Noteworthy here is that the size of the tombstone indicated how important the person was. There are names inscribed in Hebrew and some signs on the tombs indicated their professions. Probably the grapes on tombstone indicated wine making as the person’s occupation. The grave was in use from early fifteenth century to 1787. Standing amidst the tombstones I found it hard to think of anything… we are all human beings and there is an end to all!
Where is the old Jewish Cemetery located in Prague?
The Old Jewish Cemetery is located in the heart of Prague’s Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov. Its address is Široká 23/3, 110 00 Josefov, Prague 1, Czech Republic.
How to reach Jewish Cemetery Prague?
Depending on your location in Prague, you can use the city’s public transportation system to reach the Old Jewish Cemetery. The nearest tram stop to the Jewish Quarter is called “Právnická fakulta”. From there, it’s just a short walk to the cemetery.
Metro: If you prefer to use the metro, the closest metro station to the Jewish Quarter is “Staroměstská” on Line A (Green Line). From the station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the cemetery.
Walking: If you’re already in Prague’s city center, you can easily walk to the Old Jewish Cemetery. The Jewish Quarter is situated between Old Town Square and the Vltava River. Once you arrive in the Jewish Quarter, follow signs directing you to the cemetery.
Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available in Prague. You can use a taxi or a ride-sharing app to get dropped off near the Jewish Quarter.
Guided Tours: Many guided tours of Prague include visits to the Old Jewish Cemetery as part of their itinerary. If you prefer a guided experience, you can join a tour that explores Prague’s Jewish Quarter and its historical landmarks.
A new life clings to old life, tries to survive, so there is hope!
A new life clings to old life in Jewish Graveyard
Where is Franz Kafka’s grave?
Many visitors to the Jewish cemetery hope to pay homage to one of literature’s most influential writers, Franz Kafka. However, it’s a common misconception. Kafka’s grave isn’t located in this cemetery. The overcrowding led to the establishment of another cemetery known as the New Jewish Cemetery in Prague. It’s in this cemetery, situated in the Žižkov neighborhood of the Czech capital, where Kafka’s remains rest.
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What a deeply emotional and thought provoking experience. Thank you for sharing about this important grave site from WWII. I’m glad to hear there is a no photo rule there. That is a good way for people to stay in the moment and respect the site.
Cemeteries always seem to have such a peaceful vibe about them despite the obvious morbidity. We love walking through the head stones trying to piece together the story of the person beneath us. I didn’t know that graves are piled several layers thick in Jewish cemeteries. Also completely agree that sometimes things are best left unphotographed if for no other reason than to ensure you stay in the moment and focus all your senses on what you’re looking at.
I can definitely see how this would have been a moving, and somber experience – especially to come face to car with drawings from children of the Theresienstadt concentration camp during WWII. I don’t think I would be able to hold myself together. I find cemetaries quite peaceful, and enjoy visiting because I find it fascinating to read about the people who influenced the past. As you said, every tombstone tells a story. But it’s very emotional when so many graves are due to a tragedy like WWII.
The cemetery looks pretty and quite fascinating. I think it’s kind of cool that they probably indicated wine making with a grape on the tombstone.
I was in Prague this summer and we were not able to get to this cemetery, unfortunately. I will definitely go next time. It’s a good thing that no photos were allowed inside, more respectful.
I love to visit cemeteries, because as you say, they are both peaceful and emotional. You get to learn about the history of a place, but also reflect in the peace of the environment. I am happy they have a ‘no photos’ rule, sometimes it should be about respect before documentation!
I’ve been through this as well when I was in Prague. Very moving and it’s great of you that you actually respected the “no photo” rule. I see so many people just not caring about it and I think it’s disrespectful.
I have never thought to include graveyards in my itineraries when travelling, but I can see how much history is part of these grave sites. Fascinating & also just a touch macabre that graves have layers and layers of people to each site. Hopefully they were all from the same family!
Poignant!
what a moving post!
Touching! I too follow the practice of not photographing if not permitted
Moving post, Indrani!
It is sad that humanity was at its worst during WWII! I can understand how depressing it must have been to enter that site.
It's such a heart wrenching moment when we heard the stories of people who were buried there.
Very touching and solomn. What a horrible time it was for humanity.
Your photo's are so delicate and so beautiful , Indrani !
Greetings from Holland,
Anna :-))
Very touching post, with fascinating images.
painful history…
Heart rending but beautiful post especially of the children's art. Amazing too how the cemetery had up to 12 layers of graves.
I think seeing this synagogue and cemetery would be heart-breaking, knowing what happened to so many people during the Holocaust. The pictures from the cemetery are sad, but also have a quiet dignity. Thank you for including the last shot.
these headstones are beautiful. a beautiful, moving post. thanks for sharing.
Well done memorial,Indrani!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River Canada.
Very moving post.
What a beautiful and moving post, Indrani! Your photos are amazing! Thanks for sharing. I hope you have a lovely week!
This is a beautiful post…from both your words and your photos. Thanks for sharing!
Brilliant images.
Beautiful photos of a beautiful character impregnated romanticist.
Very moving and a very touching post.
I was also at the Memorial Cemetery the other day, with service men as young as 21.
I love your poetic closing words, there is hope!
aMAZING.
What beautiful and emotional captures of mood. Life and death, blending together, in several realms.
I have always wanted to visit this cemetery.
Wow , i have been to this place two times in less than 24 hours .
This is my favorite post of ANY
in a long time. You touch the face of the ineffable!
Aloha from Honolulu
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These are as amazing and inspiring, and they are heart-breaking.
Fascinating post, Indrani! Interesting to read the information. Twelve layers…that's a lot of layers!
Oh I see this cemetery twice today, the other one is from JM of http://www.travelling.com. It looks like you are on the same thoughts while posting, and Prague is a place i earnestly wants to see!
Heartbreaking and touching post. Your photographs are very moving.
Let us hope we never, ever have to witness, experience anything like this ever, ever again! Such a very moving, heartbreaking post! May we never forget! I love your last shot, Indrani! Yes, there is hope! Thank you for this!
Sylvia