Forest Cemetry (Waldfriedhof)

 

heightheight Size: 8.3 hecatres

gateGate Opened: 29 September 1926 

closeclose Closure: 1 January 2050

 

The concept behind the creation of the Forest Cemetery (Waldfriedhof) was to integrate the existing woodland landscape into the cemetery grounds, creating a natural and peaceful environment for remembrance.

 

At the time, the primary objectives were to establish a dedicated area for urn burials and to provide a suitable resting place for those who had fallen in war.

 

Following four years of planning and construction, the Forest Cemetery was officially inaugurated on 29 September 1926. Along the main pathway, on the right-hand side, is a memorial section dedicated to German war casualties, with each grave marked by an individual headstone. Elsewhere within the cemetery are a memorial to displaced persons (Heimatvertriebene) and burial areas for Russian and Polish deceased. The first burial took place on 5 October 1926.

 

During its early years, the Forest Cemetery was regarded as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Germany and, at the same time, was the largest cemetery in the City of Velbert. The cemetery covers an area of approximately 8.3 hectares.

 

In 2017, the Administrative Board of Technische Betriebe Velbert AöR (TBV) resolved that the municipal Forest Cemetery would be closed with effect from 1 January 2050.

 

Consequently, burials and interments may continue to take place at the cemetery until 31 December 2049.