Nafpaktos Jewish Cemetery

Cemetery Information

Country
Greece
Region
Western Greece
District
Phokis
Settlement
Nafpaktos
Site address
The cemetery territory is located inside the walls of the fortress in the Falchostortis area, on the northwestern slope near the Faltsoporti castle gate and parking area. From the west the territory is bordered by a fortress wall, and from the east by a valley with a stream. The northern cemetery borders are marked with tall trees.
GPS coordinates
38.39704, 21.82834
Perimeter length
529 metres. Further research is required for an exact delineation.
Is the cemetery demolished
yes
Type and height of existing fence
No fence
Preservation condition
Demolished Jewish cemetery that has not been built over
General site condition
The cemetery was demolished. Today, an olive garden and a gardener’s house are located on the site.
Number of existing gravestones
No tombstones preserved.
Date of oldest tombstone
Date of newest tombstone
Urgency of erecting a fence
High
Land ownership
Private
Preserved construction on site
Drone surveys
Yes

Historical overview

Benjamin of Tudela noted the presence of 100 Jews in Nafpaktos in the 12th century. The Jewish community developed rapidly during the Byzantine period. The community further expanded in 1429 as a result of conquests. In 1597, there were 188 Jews. In 1806, there were 30 Jews (of a total population of 2,650). In 1943, the Jews were arrested and deported to the Birkenau (Auschwitz) death camp. After the war, a few survivors returned to Nafpaktos.

The exact period of the cemetery’s establishment is unknown, but it can be assumed that it emerged in the 12th century.

3D model