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The cemetery in Prague’s Josefov district is one of the oldest preserved Jewish cemeteries in Europe. It was founded in the 14th century and served as the main burial place for the Prague Jewish community. |
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As there was not enough space in the ghetto, people were buried one above the other. Archaeological research has identified up to 12 burial layers in the Old Jewish Cemetery. Approximately 100,000 people are buried within an area of just one hectare. More than 12,000 gravestones of the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods have been preserved here. |
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The oldest gravestone dates back to 1439. It belongs to the poet Avigdor Kara. Many visitors come specifically to see the tombstone of Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel. They traditionally place written wishes into the cracks of the tombstone. The newest gravestone in the cemetery dates back to 1787. After that, Joseph II prohibited burials within the city walls. |
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| The historic gravestones are of exceptional value to researchers. In addition to the names of the dead, in long Hebrew texts on the stones, we can read who this person was, what he did, what he achieved, who his relatives were. |
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Today, the cemetery forms part of the Jewish Museum in Prague complex. Information on opening times and admission fees can be found here. |
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If you want to make the most of your visit to Prague, there are plenty of exciting activities and tours to explore the city’s history, architecture, and culture. From guided walking tours through the Old Town to boat trips along the Vltava River, you can discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Check out a curated selection of top Prague experiences on the GetYourGuide platform to plan an unforgettable trip. |
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