Jeruzalem Cemetery in Racibórz

Jeruzalem Cemetery in Racibórz is the largest necropolis in the town, consecrated in 1894. It lies in the Nowe Zagrody district and is still an active Catholic cemetery.

How it came about

The previous cemetery on Opawska street was not enough for the growing town, and it could not be enlarged. The town parish priest, Father Hermann Schaffer, looked for a new site, and on 29 March 1890 the parishioners of the parish church bought 3.1 ha of land in Nowe Zagrody. The consecration was carried out in 1894 by Father Schaffer. The first funeral took place on 19 May 1895. By 1911 the cemetery had grown to more than 5 ha, and in 1931-1933 it was extended to 8 ha. It served three parishes of Racibórz: the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Our Lady.

Gravestones and layout

The cemetery contains pre-war stone and granite gravestones of Racibórz residents, including the family of the Reding publishers and of the Sobtzik confectioners. Over the grave of Father Jan Nepomucen Krahl, curate of the town parish, rises an imposing cross of black granite. In a side part lies a plot for the clergy and nuns of Racibórz. Small shrines are set in the wall on the Ocicka street side, and old trees grow on the grounds.

The site is surrounded by a wall, and the graves are divided into plots separated by perpendicular paths. By the main entrance stands the cemetery chapel, and next to it the administration building.

Practical information

• Location: Racibórz, Nowe Zagrody, entrance from the main gate with the chapel.
• The cemetery is active, so keep quiet and show respect for funerals; check hours and rules of entry with the cemetery administration.
• It is about 2.7 km from Racibórz Castle.