Slaný Jewish Cemetery

Tucked away on a quiet slope in the Central Bohemian town of Slaný, the Slaný Jewish Cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of the region’s rich cultural history. While often overlooked by casual travelers, this site offers a reflective space for those interested in the heritage of the Jewish community that once thrived in this area. As we visit in July 2026, the site remains a protected landmark that captures the solemn beauty of 19th and 20th-century funeral architecture.

Historical Roots and Development

The Slaný Jewish Cemetery was established in 1881, marking a significant shift for the local Jewish population who previously traveled to Blevice for burials. The cemetery saw its first interments immediately upon its opening, and several of the oldest tombstones from that era remain standing today.

Spanning an area of 3,188 square meters, the site holds a quiet, somber atmosphere. Over the decades, the layout has changed, and today visitors can observe six distinct rows of tombstones, including five incomplete rows aligned north-to-south and one final row situated along the northern wall. The cemetery served the community until the final burial took place in 1951.

Architectural Significance

A striking feature of the grounds is the functionalist ceremonial hall, constructed between 1931 and 1933. This structure sits in the middle of the southern wall and is best known for its unique circular windows, which feature beautiful stained glass in the shape of the Star of David.

Supporting Facilities

The ceremonial hall is flanked by two single-story houses that were essential to the cemetery’s operations. One building functioned as a tahara, a room dedicated to the ritual purification of remains, alongside a mortuary chamber. The second building served as the residence for the gravedigger, ensuring the site was always maintained with the necessary care and tradition.

Visitor Information and Access

It is important to note that the Slaný Jewish Cemetery is currently not accessible to the general public, as parts of the site are situated on private property. The grounds are divided, with the section containing the graves managed by the Jewish religious community.

For those interested in viewing the site from the exterior or learning more about its history, you can find it located near Lázeňská and Na Vinici streets. The site is a short walk from the Slaný main square, approximately 750 meters northeast.

• Location: Lázeňská, 274 01 Slaný
• GPS Coordinates: 50.235532, 14.093924
• Recommended Time: 30 to 60 minutes for exterior viewing and surrounding area exploration

Planning Your Visit to Slaný

If you are planning a trip to the region, the Slaný Information Center is your primary resource for historical context and local maps. They can provide further insights into the town’s history and other nearby points of interest within the Kladno-Slánsko region.

Contact the Information Center:

• Address: Velvarská 136/1, 274 01 Slaný
• Phone: +420 312 523 448
• Email: ic@infoslany.cz
• Website: www.infoslany.cz

The Slaný Jewish Cemetery is a testament to the resilience and memory of a community that shaped the local landscape for generations. While you may not be able to walk through the gates, a visit to the perimeter allows for a moment of quiet contemplation and respect for the history of Slaný. We encourage you to contact the local information center before your arrival to check for any special guided tours or updated access policies that may be in effect for 2026.