Whispers of centuries past linger in the air here at the Jewish cemetery in Regensburg. This sacred ground holds stories of a community that thrived, suffered, and ultimately persevered. Let’s explore its history.
The history of the Jews in Regensburg stretches back over 1,000 years. Regensburg was once the capital of the Upper Palatinate. It was formerly a free city within the German empire. Tradition suggests a Jewish presence existed even before the common era. This makes it the oldest known Jewish settlement in Bavaria.
The first historical mention of Jews in Regensburg dates back to 981. A document states the monastery of St. Emmeram purchased property from a Jew named Samuel. The Jewish quarter is mentioned as early as the 11th century, from 1006 to 1028. It stands as the oldest German ghetto referenced in historical records.
The Jews received their first privileges in 1182. Emperor Frederick I confirmed their rights. He granted them the status of chamber servants, like their coreligionists throughout the empire. However, their political standing grew complicated. The emperor transferred them to the dukes of Lower Bavaria. This did not release them from their chamber servant obligations.
The community faced challenges during the first Crusade in 1096. In 1349, the magistrates and citizens declared they would protect their Jews. This was in response to the wave of fanaticism sweeping over Germany. The municipal council shielded them again in 1384. A riot broke out because some Jews were accused of falsely reporting their property for tax purposes.
Between 1475 and 1519, growing poverty fueled tensions. This culminated in the expulsion of the Jewish community. Anti-Semitic sermons led to the confiscation of Jewish property in 1476. The Simon of Trent trial stirred chaos. A Jew from Trent accused the Regensburg community of using Christian blood for Passover matzo. Seventeen Jews were imprisoned for four years.
In 1519, 800 Jews were expelled from Regensburg. About 5,000 tombstones were destroyed. They were used as building material. The synagogue was razed. A chapel was built on its site.
The first cemetery was on a hillock called the “Judenau”. In 1210, the community bought land for a new cemetery outside Peter’s Gate. This cemetery was destroyed during excavations in 1877. It served as a burial ground for Jews from Upper and Lower Bavaria. After the events of February 21, 1519, over 4,000 gravestones were demolished or repurposed. The destroyed synagogue dated from 1210 to 1227. It stood on the site of the former Jewish hospital.
The Jewish cemetery stands as a testament to resilience. Despite facing expulsion, destruction, and desecration, the community’s memory lives on. The tombstones here whisper stories of scholars, families, and individuals. They were all connected by their faith and heritage. Their legacy remains a vital part of Regensburg’s history.