Remains of Herzl’s Grandparents Exhumed in Belgrade for Reburial in Jerusalem

The remains of Shimon (Leib) and Rivka Herzl, the grandparents of Theodor Herzl, the founder of the modern Zionist movement, were exhumed from the Jewish cemetery in Belgrade and are being transferred to Israel. They are scheduled to be reburied next Wednesday in the Herzl family plot on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, 77 years after Theodor Herzl’s own remains were brought to Israel and reinterred there.

The exhumation took place in accordance with local religious and legal guidelines, with representatives from the World Zionist Organization, the Israeli Foreign Ministry, and ZAKA present. After the remains were removed, they were placed in special caskets for transport to Israel. The World Zionist Organization noted that this transfer followed about four years of diplomatic and political efforts to secure all necessary approvals.

This reburial is seen by organizers as a historic closure, reuniting the Herzl family in the State of Israel. Yaakov Hagoel, chairman of the World Zionist Organization, said, "When Zion returns her sons, she also returns her ancestors. Today we close a historic circle as Herzl’s grandparents finally rest alongside their grandson in the heart of Jerusalem." Dr. Yizhar Hess, deputy chairman, added that fulfilling Herzl’s wish to be buried in the Land of Israel completes an important chapter, honoring the grandparents who influenced Herzl’s early life and Zionist vision.

ZAKA CEO Tzvi Hasid expressed pride in participating in this national and ethical mission, emphasizing the organization’s professionalism and reverence in handling this sensitive task. The state funeral ceremony next week will be attended by Israel’s top officials, marking a significant moment in Zionist history.