Old Jewish Cemetery

Step into the Old Jewish Cemetery in Prague and you’ll find yourself transported into a world where history breathes between ancient, timeworn stones. Tucked in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, this remarkable site dates back to 1439 and is among the oldest surviving Jewish burial grounds in the world. What makes it truly extraordinary is how, for over three centuries, Prague’s Jewish community laid their loved ones to rest here—even as space ran out, resulting in graves layered up to ten deep and over 12,000 gravestones crowding together in evocative disarray. Families and curious travelers alike will be captivated by the stories etched into the intricately decorated headstones, each adorned with symbolic motifs of animals and plants. As you wander the winding paths, you’ll encounter the resting places of legendary figures such as Rabbi Judah Loew—the famed Maharal of Prague, associated with the mystical Golem—and community leaders like Mordecai Maisel. The cemetery is not only a moving monument to resilience and remembrance but also a living classroom, offering a powerful glimpse into centuries of Jewish culture, art, and tradition in Prague. Every visit promises moments of reflection and discovery, making it a must-see for anyone eager to connect with the city’s rich past.