Symbolic Cemetery at Popradské Pleso, Memorial cemetery in High Tatras, Slovakia
The cemetery at Popradské Pleso is a memorial site in the High Tatras housing around 370 commemorative plaques honoring climbers who died in accidents. Stone blocks and wooden crosses create the burial markers, while a large cross and chapel stand at the entrance.
Founded in 1940, the cemetery brought together commemorative plaques that had been scattered across different accident sites throughout the mountains. The consolidation was conceived by Czech painter Otakar Štáfl as a unified memorial for deceased climbers.
The cemetery honors climbers who died pursuing their passion in the mountains, with each plaque marking a personal story of loss. Visitors can see how the local community maintains this tradition of remembrance for those who faced nature's dangers.
The site is located at 1525 meters elevation on the slopes of Ostrva mountain and is accessible by hiking trails. Visitors should prepare for mountainous terrain and cooler temperatures, especially during colder months.
Only ten new plaques are added each year to maintain the site's capacity and character. This strict limit means each plaque receives considerable respect as a permanent addition to the memorial.
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