CEMETERY
OF IOANNINA
Tombs in the Jewish cemetery.
Over-growth and conservation of the oldest tombs
are among the priorities of the community.
Historical Data: The
Jewish Cemetery of Ioannina includes tombstones dating back to the 13th
century. It has
been neglected over the years due
to a lack of funds and man-power.
Area/Capacity: 25,365
sq. m.
Actual Condition: Some
years ago, the local Jewish Community transferred an area of 6,000 sq.
m. of the
cemetery to the Municipality of
Ioannina. the Municipality (claiming the change of the city plan)
has trespassed
on a large part of the cemetery,
trying to expropriate the area. The Central Board of the Jewish Communities
of
Greece, with the cooperation of
the local Jewish Community, has strongly reacted to the Municipalities
actions.
The case is still open. The surrounding
wall of the cemetery is not high, making it an easy target for vandals.
It was vandalized in
1992.
Necessary Restoration Works:
Reconstruction of hte surrounding wall, cleaning of the area, conservation
works of 1,000 tombstones.
The tombstones of historical interest need to be recorded. The cemetery
must be
graveled as well.
Estimated Cost:
15 million drs. ($43,000 US)
Kol haKEHILA thanks the Central
Board of Jewish Communities in Greece and the International Survey for
Jewish Monuments for some of the information on this page. |