Old Jewish Cemetery in Olkusz

The Old Jewish Cemetery in Olkusz, known as the kirkut, was founded after 1584. It lies on ul. Kolorowa and covers about half a hectare.

History

During the Second World War the cemetery was devastated and the matzevot (gravestones) were used for building work in the town. The destruction continued in the communist period, and in the early 1990s only seven gravestones survived here. In 2006 about thirty recovered gravestones were placed in the cemetery. In 2008 a new road was built across the cemetery grounds. In April 2013 workers of the Olkusz waterworks devastated the cemetery during construction work, and the matter was referred to the prosecutor's office.

Today

It is a place of remembrance of the former Jewish community of Olkusz, preserved to a small extent. Nearby is the new Jewish cemetery, and in the town centre the Collegiate Basilica of St Andrew.

Practical information

• Address: ul. Kolorowa in Olkusz.
• This is a cemetery, and conduct appropriate to the place is required. Check the rules of entry before a visit, for example with the town hall.