Why was this land chosen to house the deceased? That is a question many ask as they approach the Cemitério Israelita da Vila Mariana.
Welcome to the Cemitério Israelita da Vila Mariana in São Paulo. It is a Jewish cemetery established in 1919. This sacred ground holds stories of São Paulo’s Jewish community.
The land for Cemitério Israelita da Vila Mariana came from a donation. Maurício Klabin donated it when the Sociedade Cemitério Israelita de São Paulo was founded. The Klabin family continued to donate land until 1947. By then, the cemetery could not expand any further.
Popular stories say the Klabin family had a farm here. In the early 20th century, it served as a synagogue for large celebrations. When the area was donated, an agreement was made with the city. The area would house a Jewish, a Catholic, and a Protestant cemetery. At that time, there were no private cemeteries in the city.
The municipality kept records of burials until 1964. In that year, a fire destroyed many records that had no copies. The city was responsible for grave diggers until the 1970s.
Today, the Cemitério Israelita da Vila Mariana is almost full. The Associação Cemitério Israelita de São Paulo manages it. This association is also known as Chevra Kadisha.
Several notable people rest here at Cemitério Israelita da Vila Mariana. These include painter Lasar Segall and architect Gregori Warchavchik. Sculptor Felícia Leirner and writer José Mindlin are also buried here. Even drag queen and activist Kaká di Polly found their final resting place here.
The Cemitério Israelita da Vila Mariana stands as a testament to history. It shows the growth and traditions of São Paulo’s Jewish community. As we conclude our visit, remember the stories etched in stone. They remind us of lives lived and legacies that endure.