Ancient Landmark, El Jellaz Cemetery, Now a Scene of Desolation

Located on a hill overlooking the city of Tunis, the El Jellaz Cemetery is a centuries-old site that is home to the graves of thousands of Tunisians, including notable national figures and ordinary citizens. However, today, the cemetery presents a shocking image of desolation.

Nature Takes Over

The once-peaceful and well-maintained cemetery has been overrun by wild vegetation, including weeds, thistles, and lilies. The recent rains have accelerated the growth of these plants, which have invaded and covered many graves. This has made it increasingly difficult for families to find the exact location of their loved ones' tombs.

A Difficult Ritual

For many families, the ritual of visiting their ancestors' graves has become a challenging task. "We can no longer find the exact location of our parents' graves," laments Lamia. "Everything looks the same under this blanket of weeds." The accessibility and safety of the site are also compromised, as the overgrown vegetation has made some paths impassable.

Safety Concerns

The wild growth of thorny plants and brambles has created a hazardous environment for visitors, who fear encountering unwanted creatures such as insects, snakes, and rats. This has made it difficult for people to find their loved ones' graves, leading to a sense of frustration and disappointment.

A Cultural Imperative

In Tunisian culture, respecting the dead is a fundamental principle. Maintaining these sites is a way to honor the collective memory and preserve the link between generations. The lack of gardening and maintenance work raises questions about the management of municipal cemeteries.

A Call to Action

Is the problem due to a lack of human resources, a budget deficit, or a failure in coordinating services? The urgent need is to launch a large-scale campaign of weeding and rehabilitation to restore El Jellaz to its status as a sacred site. This is not just about cutting back plants, but about giving the cemetery back its dignity and respect.