The Jewish cemetery in Brobruisk is undergoing gradual restoration, and a first stage of the project is nearing completion after two years of work.
“The current stage of restoration has focused on making the cemetery accessible and safe: paths and passageways are being cleared, overgrown vegetation and debris removed, protective treatment applied to prevent renewed wild growth, and unstable trees identified and removed where necessary,” writes the website of the Federation of Jewish Communities of the CIS. “Future stages are expected to include new paths, shaded areas and drinking fountains for visitors.”
The cemetery was established around 1921 and is estimated to have more than 8,000 burials: in the late 19th century/early 20th century some 60 percent or more of the local population was Jewish. The restoration is being led by the local Jewish community together with descendants of Bobruisk families.
“The condition of the cemetery was very painful,” Rabbi Shaul Chababo, Chief Rabbi of Bobruisk and Chabad emissary to the city said on the Federation web site. “It was almost impossible to walk between the graves, and the feeling was very difficult. This initiative is being carried forward by Jewish families around the world — people born in Bobruisk and descendants of families who lived here throughout its history — who have taken responsibility for preserving this sacred place.”
Read more on the Federation web site
See a photo catalog of the cemetery