10 Things to Do in the Old Jewish Cemetery (Starý židovský hřbitov) in Prague, Czech Republic
Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter of Prague, the Old Jewish Cemetery (Starý židovský hřbitov) is the oldest and most important Jewish cemetery in the Czech Republic. Established in the 15th century, the cemetery is home to more than 12,000 graves, making it a fascinating place to explore and discover the history of Jewish life in Prague. Here are 10 things you can do when visiting the Old Jewish Cemetery in Prague:
1. Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery Museum: Located inside the cemetery, the Old Jewish Cemetery Museum offers visitors a unique insight into the history of the cemetery and the Jewish community of Prague. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts and documents, including gravestones, photographs, and documents from the cemetery’s history.
2. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours are available at the cemetery, allowing visitors to learn more about the cemetery’s history and the lives of the people buried there. Tours typically last around an hour and are a great way to explore the cemetery in more detail.
3. See the Old Jewish Cemetery Synagogue: The Old Jewish Cemetery Synagogue was built in the 19th century and is one of the few remaining synagogues in Prague. The synagogue is home to a variety of artifacts and documents, including Torah scrolls and other religious artifacts.
4. Explore the Cemetery Grounds: The cemetery is home to more than 12,000 graves, making it a fascinating place to explore and discover the history of Jewish life in Prague. Visitors can wander the cemetery grounds and explore the various gravestones and monuments.
5. Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery Chapel: The Old Jewish Cemetery Chapel is a small chapel located in the cemetery. The chapel was built in the 19th century and is home to a variety of artifacts and documents, including Torah scrolls and other religious artifacts.
6. See the Old Jewish Cemetery Wall: The Old Jewish Cemetery Wall is a historic wall that surrounds the cemetery. The wall was built in the 17th century and is a reminder of the Jewish community’s history in Prague.
7. Explore the Old Jewish Cemetery Park: Located adjacent to the cemetery is the Old Jewish Cemetery Park. The park is home to a variety of monuments and sculptures, as well as a playground and picnic area.
8. Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery Memorial: Located in the cemetery is the Old Jewish Cemetery Memorial, a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. The memorial is a reminder of the suffering of the Jewish people during the Holocaust and is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering the past.
9. Attend a Jewish Ceremony: The cemetery is home to a variety of Jewish ceremonies, including funerals and memorial services. Attending a ceremony is a great way to learn more about Jewish culture and traditions.
10. Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery at Night: The cemetery is open at night and is a great place to explore and discover the history of Jewish life in Prague. Visitors can wander the cemetery grounds and explore the various gravestones and monuments.
Whether you’re looking to explore the history of the Jewish community in Prague or just want to spend some time in a peaceful and beautiful setting, the Old Jewish Cemetery is the perfect place to visit. With its fascinating history and unique atmosphere, the cemetery is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Prague.