Old Jewish Cemetery

The Old Jewish Cemetery, locally known as Jevrejsko groblje u Sarajevu, is a historical gem nestled on the slopes of Trebević mountain in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. As the largest Jewish cemetery in Southeast Europe and the second largest sepulchral complex in Europe, it offers a poignant glimpse into the rich tapestry of Jewish history and culture in the region. This sacred site, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Kovačići-Debelo Brdo area, invites visitors to explore its storied past and pay homage to the lives that once thrived in Sarajevo.

The Historical Significance of the Old Jewish Cemetery

Established in 1630 by Sephardic Jews during the Ottoman period, the Old Jewish Cemetery served as a vital burial ground for the Jewish community in Sarajevo. It later became the resting place for Ashkenazi Jews who arrived with the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the late 19th century. Spanning over 31,160 square meters and housing more than 3,850 tombstones, the cemetery stands as a testament to the enduring presence of Jewish culture in the Balkans.

During its four centuries of use, the cemetery witnessed the ebb and flow of Sarajevo's history. It was a silent observer to the city's transformations and upheavals, including the turbulent war of the 1990s. Tragically, the cemetery found itself on the front line during this conflict, suffering damage from artillery fire and landmines. Fortunately, it was cleared of mines in 1996, allowing visitors to safely explore its grounds and reflect on its historical significance.

Exploring the Cemetery Grounds

As you wander through the Old Jewish Cemetery, you'll encounter a diverse array of tombstones, each telling its own story. The tombstones, with inscriptions in Hebrew, Ladino, and other languages, offer a unique insight into the lives of those buried here. Some are simple and unadorned, while others are elaborately carved, reflecting the varied cultural influences that have shaped Sarajevo's Jewish community.

Among the notable burials are Rabbi Samuel Baruh, the first rabbi of Sarajevo, and Rabbi Isak Pardo, who served from 1781 to 1810. The cemetery also honors the memory of Moshe ben Rafael Attias, a prominent figure in the early 20th century, and Laura Levi Papo LaBohoreta, a celebrated writer. These individuals, along with many others, have left an indelible mark on the cultural and spiritual life of Sarajevo.

Memorials and Monuments

The Old Jewish Cemetery is also home to several poignant memorials dedicated to the victims of fascism. Among them is a Sephardi monument designed by Jahiel Finci, erected in 1952, and two Ashkenazi memorials. These monuments serve as a powerful reminder of the atrocities faced by the Jewish community during the 20th century and underscore the resilience and strength of those who endured.

In addition to these memorials, the cemetery features cenotaphs—empty memorial tombs inscribed with the names of individuals who perished elsewhere and whose graves remain unknown. These cenotaphs provide a space for reflection and remembrance, inviting visitors to honor the memory of those who were lost.

The Genizah: A Sacred Repository

In the southeastern part of the cemetery lies a Genizah, a separate vault for the burial of damaged holy books. The first burial in the Genizah took place on July 3, 1916, and it is believed that 14 chests of sacred texts were interred during a subsequent ceremony. Efforts are currently underway to exhume and examine the contents of the Genizah, offering the potential for new discoveries and insights into the spiritual life of Sarajevo's Jewish community.

A National and World Heritage Site

The Old Jewish Cemetery has been recognized as a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighting its cultural and historical importance. In 2018, documentation was submitted to UNESCO for its inclusion on the World Heritage Site list, emphasizing its significance as a sepulchral ensemble that embodies the shared heritage of the Jewish diaspora in Europe.

As you explore the Old Jewish Cemetery, you'll be enveloped by a sense of reverence and reflection. The tranquil surroundings, coupled with the weight of history, create a profound experience that resonates with visitors from around the world. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or someone seeking a moment of quiet contemplation, the Old Jewish Cemetery in Sarajevo offers a meaningful journey through time and memory.