Lost in Leipzig’s embrace stands Friedhof Schönefeld. A tranquil haven it offers a glimpse into centuries past. Established in 1744 it initially served the impoverished residents of Schönefeld. Burials took place around the village church.
The Friedhof Schönefeld is more than just a resting place. It’s a living testament to Leipzig’s history. Its evolution mirrors the city’s growth. The original cemetery closed in 1854. The existing cemetery was expanded eastward. By 1856 a surrounding wall was built. A chapel was later added inside the cemetery. The expanded cemetery was officially inaugurated on July 27 1857 by Pastor Gottfried Friedrich Vollbeding.
The old church cemetery was consecrated in 1884. Thirty years after the last burial it was transformed into a green space. Schönefeld’s rapidly increasing population created a demand for schools. Sections of the older cemetery were used for this purpose. Burials there were long past or had been destroyed during the Battle of Nations.
Further expansion occurred in 1893. A school was built on the former cemetery grounds. In 1897 a mortuary now a utility building was constructed on the eastern part of the cemetery. The ‘yellow school’ was completed north of the cemetery entrance in 1899. The construction of schools on former cemetery land narrowed the cemetery entrance to a corridor. This will soon be renovated. The juxtaposition of cemetery and schools is a long-standing feature of Schönefeld creating unique challenges and opportunities.
The Friedhof Schönefeld is under the supervision of the Evangelical Lutheran Matthew Church Parish. For information on other cemeteries contact the city’s central cemetery administration.
The Schönefeld Cemetery is located in the namesake district northeast of Leipzig’s city center. Public transportation is readily available. The ‘Ossietzky/Gorkistrasse’ stop is located near the main entrance.
The Friedhof Schönefeld’s opening hours vary seasonally. From March to October it’s open Tuesdays from 2 pm to 6 pm. In November and February it is open on Tuesdays from 2 pm to 5 pm. December and January opening times are Tuesdays from 2 pm to 4 pm. Wednesday and Thursday opening times are 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.
The cemetery administration’s office hours are Thursdays from 1 pm to 5 pm. Contact Mr Lehmann at 0341/2312126 or Frau Müller/Frau Claus at 0341/2312126 0341/2348335. Email is info@kirche-leipzig-nordost.de.