In the heart of Lower Austria, Sankt Pölten, a family reunion took place that was more than just a meeting of descendants—it was a journey back in time, tracing roots and honoring the memory of those who came before. The descendants gathered to visit the cemeteries where their grand-parents families were laid to rest, a solemn and powerful reminder of their shared history. These burial grounds, once abandoned or desecrated, held not just the remains of their ancestors but the echoes of a once-thriving Jewish community.

In addition to the visits to the cemeteries, we the descendants explored the cities in which our ancestors lived.

St. Pölten’s city’s streets, and Synagogue  carried the weight of history, blending past and present. Each landmark told a story—of families, culture, loss, and revival. Despite the passage of time, the spirit of the once-flourishing Jewish community could still be felt in the preserved synagogue while we prayed together we felt the weight of it’s once stature in Austrian Jewish life and its significance for all of us.

Also in Vienna museums and monuments that stand as both a memorial and a celebration of a rich cultural legacy.

This journey through cemeteries and historical sites became a meaningful tribute to the past, a way of keeping the stories alive and sharing them with future generations, it was not just about visiting graves; it was about reconnecting with a lost world, understanding the hardships and triumphs of their ancestors, and ensuring that their legacy would never be forgotten.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the organization of this significant event, especially to all of the INJOEST team, especially to Martha Keil, and Sabine Hödl, as well as to the government authorities.