Stolperstein commemorative cobblestone dedicated to Alfred Rosbasch in Baden-Baden, Germany

Stolperstein Dedicated To Alfred Rosbasch

Stolperstein Alfred Rosbasch Baden-Baden: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Stolpersteine, or “stumbling stones,” are a powerful and decentralized memorial project commemorating victims of Nazi persecution. In Baden-Baden, the Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch offers visitors a poignant opportunity to reflect on the personal stories behind this dark chapter in history. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the history, significance, and practical aspects of visiting the Alfred Rosbasch Stolperstein, along with tips for engaging meaningfully with this living memorial and exploring Baden-Baden’s broader historical and cultural context (Stolpersteine.eu; Wikipedia - Stolperstein).

The Stolperstein Project: Origins and Philosophy

Initiated in 1992 by German artist Gunter Demnig, the Stolpersteine project is the world’s largest decentralized Holocaust memorial. Each Stolperstein is a 10 x 10 cm brass plaque set in the pavement, engraved with the name and fate of a victim of Nazi persecution. The stones are placed at the individual’s last freely chosen residence or workplace, integrating remembrance into the fabric of everyday life and inviting passersby to “stumble” in thought and memory (pragueviews.com).

The guiding principle is to restore individuality and dignity to the victims, as reflected in the Talmudic saying, “A person is only forgotten when his name is forgotten.” This intimate, street-level memorialization stands in contrast to larger monuments, creating daily moments of reflection and encouraging ongoing dialogue about tolerance and human rights.

Stolpersteine in Baden-Baden: Local Context

Baden-Baden began participating in the Stolpersteine project in 2008, and by 2023, over 200 stones had been installed throughout the city (goodnews4.de). These Stolpersteine commemorate Jewish citizens as well as other groups persecuted by the Nazis, such as resistance fighters and victims of euthanasia programs.

The project in Baden-Baden is a collaborative effort involving local historians, schools, cultural organizations, and the city administration. Students contribute by researching biographies and participating in installation ceremonies, which often include musical tributes and the involvement of survivors’ relatives. The city emphasizes that Nazi persecution occurred within the heart of society, using Stolpersteine to promote vigilance against antisemitism and exclusion (gedenkbuch.baden-baden.de).

The Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch: Story and Significance

Alfred Rosbasch (1912–1954) was a cantor and member of a prominent Jewish family in Baden-Baden (gedenkbuch.baden-baden.de). His life encapsulates the broader experience of Jewish families during the Nazi era:

Early Life: Born and raised in Baden-Baden, Alfred was academically gifted and actively involved in his community.
Nazi Persecution: Forced to abandon his law studies in 1933, he married Hilde Sonntag, a medical student. Both were restricted to working within the Jewish community.
Escape and Survival: With the growing threat of violence, the couple emigrated to the United States in 1938, narrowly escaping the November pogrom (Kristallnacht). Other family members also fled to Palestine and the USA.
Legacy: Alfred’s son, Michael Rosbash, became a Nobel laureate, reflecting the resilience and enduring contributions of families forced into exile.

The Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch not only marks the trauma of displacement but also honors the courage and survival of those who escaped. It personalizes history, giving a name and story to what could otherwise be an anonymous loss (claudiatravels.com).

Visiting the Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch: Location and Access

Location: The Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch is embedded in the sidewalk at his last freely chosen residence in Baden-Baden. The precise address can be found in the official list of Stolpersteine in Baden-Baden, and local maps are available at the tourist information office (Baden-Baden Tourist Information).

Accessibility:

The stone is located in a public space and is accessible 24/7, free of charge.
Baden-Baden’s city center is pedestrian-friendly, though some streets may be cobbled or uneven.

No Tickets Required: There is no admission fee or ticket required to visit the Stolperstein, making it easy for anyone to pay their respects at any time.

Guided Tours:

Occasional guided Stolperstein tours (including in English) are organized by local historical societies and the tourist office. These provide deeper context and can be booked in advance.

How to Visit Respectfully

Pause and Reflect: Take a moment to read the inscription. Bending down to read the brass plate is a symbolic gesture of remembrance.
Cleaning the Stones: Locals and visitors sometimes polish the Stolpersteine with a cloth to preserve their visibility and honor the memory of the victims (folklife.si.edu).
Photography: Discreet photography is permitted; be mindful of the memorial’s solemnity and avoid blocking the sidewalk.
Remembrance Rituals: Placing a small stone or flower is a traditional sign of respect in Jewish culture.

Practical Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Baden-Baden is pleasant from spring through autumn for walking tours. Holocaust Remembrance Days (e.g., January 27) often feature commemorative events.
Accessibility: Most Stolpersteine are accessible to those with mobility challenges, though some areas in the historic center may have uneven surfaces.
Nearby Attractions: Consider incorporating your Stolperstein visit with other historical and cultural sites such as the Kurhaus, Lichtentaler Allee, Fabergé Museum, and the Museum Frieder Burda (adventuresofalice.com; germanyfootsteps.com).
Public Transport: The city’s bus network and parking garages provide convenient access to the center.
Language: Inscriptions are in German; translation apps or guided tours can help non-German speakers.

Educational and Emotional Impact

The Stolperstein project transforms the urban landscape into a living memorial and an educational resource. In Baden-Baden, school projects, guided tours, and digital resources like the Stolpersteine Guide app make these stories accessible to all generations. Visitors are invited to reflect not only on the past but also on the ongoing importance of vigilance against discrimination and racism (germany.info).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where can I find the Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch?
A: The location is listed in the official Stolpersteine register and through local maps at the tourist office.

Q: Are there visiting hours or tickets required?
A: No. The Stolperstein is accessible at all times, free of charge.

Q: Can I join a guided tour?
A: Yes. Guided tours are occasionally offered in English or German—check with the tourist information office for schedules.

Q: Is the Stolperstein accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Generally, yes, though some pavements may be uneven.

Q: How can I support the Stolpersteine project?
A: Donations and sponsorships are welcomed through local archives and the Stolpersteine Arbeitskreis.

Additional Resources and Further Reading

Conclusion and Call to Action

Visiting the Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch in Baden-Baden is an act of remembrance and reflection. These small but significant memorials bridge the gap between past and present, honoring the victims and survivors of Nazi persecution while educating future generations. Combine your visit with a tour of Baden-Baden’s cultural sites for a richer understanding of the city’s history.

For an enhanced experience, consider downloading the Stolpersteine Guide app or the Audiala app for audio tours and interactive maps. Stay connected through local cultural channels for information on special events and new installations.

By pausing at the Stolperstein for Alfred Rosbasch, you help ensure that these stories are not forgotten and that the lessons of history continue to resonate.