Old Cemetery

Old Jewish Cemetery Třebíč: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the UNESCO-listed Jewish Quarter of Třebíč, the Old Jewish Cemetery is one of the most important Jewish heritage sites in the Czech Republic and Central Europe. Its centuries-old tombstones, ceremonial hall, and tranquil hillside setting offer a powerful glimpse into the history, culture, and faith of Třebíč’s once-thriving Jewish community. This guide provides comprehensive details on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, suggested itineraries, and historical context to ensure an informed and respectful visit.

Historical Background of the Old Jewish Cemetery and Jewish Quarter
Architecture and Cultural Significance
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Tickets and Admission
Accessibility and Visitor Guidelines
Guided Tours and Educational Resources
Getting There and Suggested Itinerary
Preservation and Cultural Legacy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Background of the Old Jewish Cemetery and Jewish Quarter

Jewish settlement in Třebíč dates back to at least the 13th century, making it one of the oldest and most significant Jewish communities in Moravia (View from Prague). The Jewish Quarter, known locally as Židovská čtvrť, features a dense network of historic buildings, including synagogues, a rabbi’s office, and communal institutions. By the 19th century, the Jewish population peaked at nearly 1,500 residents, and the area had become a vibrant center of Jewish life (Wikipedia).

The Old Jewish Cemetery, situated above the Quarter on Hrádek Street, is one of the largest and best-preserved Jewish cemeteries in the Czech Republic (Třebíč Jewish Cemetery). The oldest legible tombstone is dated 1631, but the cemetery may have been established even earlier. It continued in use until the 20th century, serving as a burial ground for generations of Třebíč Jews (National Heritage Institute).

Architecture and Cultural Significance

The Jewish Quarter

The architecture of the Jewish Quarter displays a blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and later influences, with over 120 historic buildings. Notable sites include the Rear Synagogue (now a museum), the Seligmann Bauer’s House (an evocative recreation of an 18th-century Jewish home), and the former rabbi’s office (JGuide Europe). These structures collectively illustrate the community’s social, religious, and economic life.

The Old Jewish Cemetery

With over 3,000 gravestones and approximately 11,000 burials, the cemetery is divided into older and newer sections, reflecting the growth and evolution of the Jewish community (IAJGS Cemetery Project). The gravestones range from simple markers to ornate Baroque, Renaissance, Classicist, and Art Nouveau monuments, many intricately carved with Hebrew inscriptions and Jewish symbols such as the Star of David, menorahs, and priestly hands (New York Jewish Travel Guide).

A ceremonial hall, built in 1903, stands within the cemetery and was historically used for funeral rites and gatherings. The site also includes a tahara (pre-burial) house and ritual washing basin, which reflect traditional Jewish burial customs (IAJGS Cemetery Project).

Symbol of Coexistence

The ensemble of the Jewish Quarter, cemetery, and St. Procopius Basilica is recognized by UNESCO for its testimony to centuries of Jewish-Christian coexistence and cultural exchange in Central Europe (UNESCO World Heritage).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

May to October: 09:00–18:00
November to April: 09:00–16:00

Hours may be subject to change during Jewish holidays or for maintenance. It is advisable to confirm before your visit (Rachel’s Ruminations).

Tickets and Admission

Old Jewish Cemetery: Free admission.
Rear Synagogue: 50 CZK (approx. €2)
Combined Rear Synagogue & Seligmann Bauer’s House: 100 CZK
St. Procopius Basilica: 100 CZK (additional fee for guided tours)

Tickets for synagogues and museums can be purchased onsite at each venue.

Accessibility and Visitor Guidelines

The cemetery is situated on a hillside with terraced, uneven paths; some areas may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
The Jewish Quarter and synagogues are more accessible, with some facilities for wheelchair users.
Dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor, as the cemetery is an active heritage and memorial site.
Photography is permitted; please be discreet and avoid disturbing other visitors.

Guided Tours and Educational Resources

Guided tours of the Jewish Quarter, synagogues, and St. Procopius Basilica are available in English and other languages. Advance booking is recommended.
The cemetery is best explored quietly and independently, though group tours can be arranged through the local tourism office (Visit Czechia).

Getting There and Suggested Itinerary

Getting There

By Train/Bus: Třebíč is easily reached from Brno or Prague. The train and bus stations are about a 15-minute walk from the Jewish Quarter.
By Car: Parking is available near the Jewish Quarter and cemetery.

Walking Route

From the Jewish Quarter, follow the signposted, gently uphill path to the cemetery (5–10 minutes by foot).
The walk offers panoramic views of Třebíč and its historic rooftops (My Wanderlust).

Suggested Day Itinerary

Morning: Tour the Jewish Quarter, museums, and synagogues.
Late Morning: Walk up to the Old Jewish Cemetery; explore tombstones, ceremonial hall, and memorials.
Early Afternoon: Visit St. Procopius Basilica.
Late Afternoon: Stroll through Karlovo Square for dining or shopping (Time Travel Turtle).

Nearby Attractions

St. Procopius Basilica: Masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture, also part of the UNESCO ensemble.
Karlovo Square: One of the largest historic squares in the Czech Republic.
Třebíč Castle: A short walk from the basilica.

Preservation and Cultural Legacy

The Old Jewish Cemetery and Jewish Quarter are actively maintained with support from the Brno Jewish community and local heritage organizations (IAJGS Cemetery Project). Restoration efforts focus on preserving gravestones and ritual structures, while educational programs foster public understanding of Jewish history and cultural heritage.

The site’s recognition by UNESCO underscores its global significance as a symbol of tolerance and intercultural dialogue (UNESCO World Heritage). Ongoing preservation ensures that future generations can learn from this unique legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Old Jewish Cemetery Třebíč visiting hours?
A: May to October: 9:00–18:00; November to April: 9:00–16:00. Hours may differ on holidays.

Q: Is there an admission fee for the cemetery?
A: No, entry is free.

Q: Are tickets required for other Jewish heritage sites?
A: Yes, synagogues and museums in the Jewish Quarter and St. Procopius Basilica charge small admission fees.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for the Jewish Quarter and basilica. The cemetery is best visited independently, but special group tours can be arranged.

Q: How accessible are the cemetery and Jewish Quarter?
A: The cemetery has uneven terrain; some areas of the Jewish Quarter are wheelchair accessible.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, but please be respectful.

Q: Where can I find more visitor information?
A: Check the official Czech tourism website or the International Jewish Cemetery Project.

Sources and Further Reading

Final Tips

For an immersive visit, consider:

Downloading the Audiala app for audio guides, detailed maps, and updates.
Allowing at least half a day to explore the Jewish Quarter, cemetery, and St. Procopius Basilica.
Visiting in spring or autumn for the most atmospheric experience.
Checking local tourism websites for guided tour schedules and event updates.

By planning ahead and engaging with these remarkable sites, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Třebíč’s unique contribution to Jewish and European heritage.