Historic sites

Tomb of the Tzadik of Lelów

The ohel in Lelów commemorates Dawid Biderman, known as the Lelower (1746–1814), a rabbi and founder of the Lelov Hasidic dynasty. It stands on Ogrodowa Street near the market, at a site connected with the former Jewish cemetery. It is an important pilgrimage destination and a trace of Lelów’s multicultural history.

Dawid Biderman and the ohel

An ohel is a building over the grave of a tzadik or distinguished rabbi. Dawid Biderman died on 28 January 1814 and was buried in the local Jewish cemetery. Hasidic visitors pray here and leave kvitlech, notes containing requests. It remains an active place of memory and prayer.

A destroyed cemetery and a restored memorial

Before the Second World War, Lelów had two Jewish cemeteries. Both were destroyed, and the visible trace of the original ohel disappeared after the war. In 1988, efforts began to locate the grave and restore the site; in 1989, part of a building became a new ohel. The site was later arranged and secured.

Pilgrimage and practical information

The largest pilgrimage takes place at the turn of January and February, during the yahrzeit, the anniversary of the tzadik’s death. Pair the ohel with Lelów market square and other traces of Jewish history. Interior access is not permanent, so check arrangements with the municipality or event organisers. Dress modestly, keep quiet and do not photograph people praying without permission. In August, check the Ciulim and Cholent Festival programme.