Old Cemetry

Whispers of the past echo through the Old Cemetery in Windhoek. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, a silent chronicle of Namibia’s history. Established in 1892, the Old Cemetery, also known as the Commonwealth Graves, rests on both sides of Robert Mugabe Avenue. This isn’t just one cemetery, but two distinct sections, each holding its own stories. The eastern section, the older of the two, cradles the remains of German soldiers who fell during the Nama and Herero Wars. Early settlers and civilians, including members of the Witbooi clan, also rest here. A later extension to this section holds the graves of Union of South Africa soldiers from both World Wars, now maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Across Robert Mugabe Avenue lies the western section, sometimes called Leutwein Cemetery, established in 1904. Here lie those claimed by World War I and the devastating 1918 influenza epidemic. The Old Cemetery whispers tales of conflict, colonization, and everyday life. It offers a glimpse into a pivotal period in Namibia’s journey, revealing the diverse lives that shaped this nation. The weathered tombstones, many with German inscriptions, are more than just markers; they’re doorways to stories waiting to be rediscovered within the Old Cemetery’s serene embrace.