Cemitério Judeu
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Old Jewish Cemetery

3.4
·15 reviews·Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A vast, historic Jewish cemetery in Sarajevo, showcasing unique gravestones and offering stunning city views amidst a poignant, natural setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring Mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Cemitério Judeu

Old Jewish Cemetery

Best Time

Late Spring Mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast, historic Jewish cemetery in Sarajevo, showcasing unique gravestones and offering stunning city views amidst a poignant, natural setting.

3.4
(15 reviews)

"A beautiful piece of history, unfortunately abandoned but well worth a visit for its unique heritage and views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly out of respect for this sacred site. Avoid loud noises and disruptive behavior.

🚗 Access Challenges

Google Maps can be unreliable for walking. Taxis or local assistance might be needed for easier access.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Grave Markers

Historic Grave Markers

Throughout the cemetery

Explore a mix of Sephardi and Ashkenazi gravestones, a testament to rich Jewish heritage.

Reddit
Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Upper sections

Enjoy breathtaking views of Sarajevo from the cemetery's elevated positions.

Reddit
The Adjacent Synagogue

The Adjacent Synagogue

Base of the cemetery

Discover a small, historic synagogue located at the foot of the cemetery grounds.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Exploration

This historic cemetery is a place of remembrance. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, avoid loud noises, and dress modestly. Remember, it's a sacred site, not just a tourist attraction. Reddit

Navigating the Grounds

Access can be tricky; Google Maps might not be reliable for pedestrian routes. Some roads are single-lane or cordoned off. Consider local help or a taxi for easier access, especially if your car gets stuck. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Spring Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn Afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

it's forbidden to discard religious, holy texts and the trash. instead. it's respectfully buried in the ground. #jewishcemetery #jewishburial #religiousbooks #holybible #chumash #siddur #jewishtradition #sacredground
@rabbiraps
105.5K likes • 1.1M views

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly out of respect for this sacred site. Avoid loud noises and disruptive behavior. Reddit

🚗 Access Challenges

Google Maps can be unreliable for walking. Taxis or local assistance might be needed for easier access. Reddit

Why is there a Jewish tradition to place a stone on a grave when visiting the cemetery? #jewishlife #mitzvah #jewishfuneral
@rabbiraps
63.2K likes • 1.3M views
Can Jews with tattoos be buried in a Jewish cemetery? Is cremation allowed? Jewish burial questions and answers. #jewish #burial #questions #answers #tattoos #cremation
@mosesandzippora
10.3K likes • 280.3K views

🌿 Overgrown Beauty

Expect high grass; it's part of its current charm. Embrace the natural, albeit unkempt, atmosphere. Reddit

📸 Capture History

The unique gravestones and city views offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

Vem descobrir um pouquinho sobre cemitérios judaicos com a gente! #cemiterioantigo #tournocemiterio #asmrsounds #asmr #lapides #tumulo #passeionocemiterio #asmrnocemiterio #artetumular #asmrtok #mausoleu #judaismo #cemiterioisraelita
@tumultulos
8.3K likes • 113K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly out of respect for this sacred site. Avoid loud noises and disruptive behavior. Reddit

🚗 Access Challenges

Google Maps can be unreliable for walking. Taxis or local assistance might be needed for easier access. Reddit

🌿 Overgrown Beauty

Expect high grass; it's part of its current charm. Embrace the natural, albeit unkempt, atmosphere. Reddit

📸 Capture History

The unique gravestones and city views offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.4
(15 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Old Jewish Cemetery a historically significant and visually striking site, particularly for its unique gravestones and panoramic city views. However, many note its poor maintenance and overgrown state, which detracts from its potential beauty. Access can also be challenging, requiring careful navigation or local assistance.

"Do not trust Google Maps if you want to walk here from above the cemetery. Almost all the roads are for single lane traffic of cars and some of them are outright cordoned off, making it hard to reach your destination on foot, or by car too I guess…

Very poorly maintained Jewish cemetery but it is well worth a visit if you are into walking in cemeteries like I am.

It seems to have a small synagogue at its feet and some amazing views to check out on the upper sides."

Mustafa Serdar Karakaya

"Beautiful piece of history. Unfortunately, it stays abandoned with only high grass trimmed. It’s the second largest Jewish cemetery in Europe, so wound be nice to see the reconstruction of it"

Metal Rocks

"One of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe and a wittnes of the great Jewish heritage in Sarajevo. Its a mix of Sefardi and Ashkenazi grave stones."

Adis Kulin

What People Like

Rich Jewish heritage
Unique gravestones
Panoramic city views

What People Dislike

Poor maintenance
Overgrown grass
Difficult access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Accessing the Old Jewish Cemetery can be challenging. Google Maps may not provide accurate walking routes, and some roads are single-lane or blocked. It's advisable to use a taxi or arrange for local assistance to navigate the area, especially if you plan to drive. Reddit

Walking from the city center can be difficult due to road layouts and potential blockages. It's recommended to check with locals or your accommodation for the best current access routes. Reddit

Driving is possible, but be prepared for narrow, single-lane roads. Some visitors have reported getting stuck, so having a plan for assistance or opting for a taxi is wise. Reddit

Taxis are a convenient option. Alternatively, if you're adventurous, you might be able to find local guidance for navigating the roads by car. Reddit

While there isn't one designated 'main' entrance for tourists, be aware that the cemetery is situated on a hillside, and access points can vary. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no mention of admission fees for the Old Jewish Cemetery. It appears to be freely accessible, though maintaining its upkeep is a community concern. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not widely published. As it's a cemetery, it's generally accessible during daylight hours, but it's best to visit during reasonable times. Reddit

Based on visitor accounts, there is no entrance fee. The cemetery is a historical site that visitors can explore freely. Reddit

You can visit the cemetery on your own. However, given its historical significance and current state, a local guide might offer deeper insights. Reddit

Yes, some visitors have reported getting stuck, particularly with cars, due to the road conditions. It's wise to be cautious or seek local help. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The cemetery is described as poorly maintained and overgrown with high grass, though some efforts are made to trim it. It's a beautiful piece of history but appears abandoned to some. Reddit

You'll find a mix of Sephardi and Ashkenazi gravestones, showcasing the diverse Jewish heritage present in Sarajevo. Reddit

There are no specific visitor facilities mentioned. It's a historical site primarily focused on graves and its natural surroundings. Reddit

Yes, it is noted as one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, making it a significant historical landmark. Reddit

The atmosphere is one of historical immersion and natural beauty, though some find it poignant due to its unkempt state. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The unique Sephardi and Ashkenazi gravestones offer compelling photographic subjects. The upper sections also provide stunning panoramic views of Sarajevo. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Reddit

Morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the atmosphere and details of the gravestones and the surrounding landscape. Reddit

No specific restrictions are mentioned, but respectful photography is always encouraged in such historical and religious sites. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary by location and are often restricted in sensitive areas like cemeteries. It's best to check local drone laws before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Old Jewish Cemetery offers a unique historical experience, it might be challenging for families with very young children due to the uneven terrain and overgrown grass. However, for families interested in history and nature, it can be a valuable visit. The panoramic views of Sarajevo can be a highlight for kids, offering a great spot for a picnic if you pack your own. Emphasize the importance of respectful behavior and keeping a close eye on children to ensure they understand the solemnity of the site. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Cemetery Enthusiasts

This cemetery is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by history, particularly Jewish heritage. The sheer scale and the distinct Sephardi and Ashkenazi gravestones offer a rich visual study. Visitors who appreciate the atmosphere of historic cemeteries will find this site compelling, even in its current state of overgrowth. Consider researching the history of Sarajevo's Jewish community beforehand to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the site. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Old Jewish Cemetery presents a unique photographic opportunity. The historic gravestones, with their varied inscriptions and designs, are excellent subjects. The overgrown landscape adds a dramatic, almost haunting, aesthetic. Furthermore, the elevated position provides stunning opportunities for cityscape photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. Be prepared for potentially challenging access and uneven ground. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Old Jewish Cemetery in Sarajevo stands as a poignant testament to the city's rich and diverse Jewish heritage. It is recognized as one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, reflecting a significant historical presence. The cemetery is a unique blend, housing both Sephardi and Ashkenazi gravestones, each with distinct styles and inscriptions, offering a visual narrative of the community's origins and evolution. Its existence is a crucial reminder of the vibrant Jewish life that once thrived in Sarajevo.

Despite its historical importance, the cemetery faces challenges with maintenance. Visitors often describe it as poorly maintained and overgrown with high grass, giving it an air of abandonment. However, this natural state also contributes to its unique, almost melancholic beauty. The panoramic views of Sarajevo from its elevated position are frequently highlighted as a significant draw, offering a striking contrast between the solemnity of the graves and the bustling city below. The presence of a small synagogue at its base further adds to the site's historical significance and architectural interest. Reddit

Navigating Access and Respect

Visiting the Old Jewish Cemetery requires a bit of planning, particularly regarding access. Many visitors have noted that Google Maps can be unreliable for pedestrian routes, and the surrounding roads are often single-lane or even cordoned off, making navigation difficult for both cars and walkers. This has led to situations where visitors have gotten stuck, highlighting the need for caution or local assistance. Some travelers have shared positive experiences with locals who have helped them gain access, even assisting with vehicles. Reddit

Beyond the practicalities of reaching the site, maintaining respect is paramount. As a place of remembrance, visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, avoid loud noises, and dress modestly. The cemetery is not merely a tourist attraction but a sacred space. While the current state of upkeep is a concern for many, the historical and cultural value of the Old Jewish Cemetery is undeniable, and a visit offers a profound connection to Sarajevo's past. Reddit

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