Stolperstein memorial stone dedicated to Dr. Kurt Lehmann in Baden-Baden, Germany

Stolperstein Dedicated To Dr. Kurt Lehmann

Stolperstein Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Baden-Baden

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the picturesque city of Baden-Baden, Germany, the Stolperstein dedicated to Dr. Kurt Lehmann is a poignant and accessible memorial that honors the memory of those persecuted during the Nazi regime. Part of the Europe-wide Stolpersteine (“stumbling stones”) project initiated by artist Gunter Demnig, these small brass plaques are embedded in public sidewalks at the last freely chosen residences of victims. The Stolperstein for Dr. Lehmann, located at Schillerstraße 3, marks his home before his deportation and murder in Auschwitz in 1942. This understated yet powerful memorial encourages everyday reflection and transforms the city’s streets into sites of living remembrance (Stolpersteine.eu; TracesOfWar.nl).

Baden-Baden, renowned for its spa culture, artistic heritage, and vibrant history, offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with both its celebrated and somber past. The Stolperstein for Dr. Lehmann, alongside sites like the Baden-Baden Synagogue and the Jewish Museum, provides an entry point into the city’s Jewish heritage and the broader narrative of World War II. This comprehensive guide covers the historical background, symbolism, visiting information, accessibility, travel tips, and related attractions to help you make the most of your visit (baden-baden.com; claudiatravels.com).

Introduction
Historical Background of the Stolperstein for Dr. Kurt Lehmann
Symbolism and Artistic Intent
Visiting Information: Hours, Accessibility, and Tour Options
Travel Tips for Visiting the Stolperstein
Nearby Historical Sites & Attractions
Visuals and Media
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References and Further Reading

Historical Background of the Stolperstein for Dr. Kurt Lehmann

Dr. Kurt Lehmann, born in 1909, was a Jewish physician and resident of Baden-Baden. Like many Jewish professionals, he faced escalating persecution after the Nazi rise to power. Anti-Semitic laws dismantled his professional and personal life, ultimately leading to his deportation and murder in Auschwitz in 1942. The Stolperstein at Schillerstraße 3 commemorates his last freely chosen residence, offering a tangible link to both his individual story and the broader tragedy of the Holocaust. The stone also honors Liselotte Lehmann, born in 1914, who fled from the Gurs internment camp in France (TracesOfWar.nl; claudiatravels.com).

Symbolism and Artistic Intent

The Stolpersteine project, initiated by Gunter Demnig in 1992, seeks to commemorate individual victims of National Socialism—including Jews, Roma and Sinti, political prisoners, and others—by embedding small brass plaques into pavements across Europe. Each Stolperstein bears the victim’s name, date of birth, fate, and, if known, date and place of death (Stolpersteine.eu). The highly polished brass surfaces reflect light, catching the eye and encouraging passersby to pause and consider the lives that were disrupted. The term “stumbling stone” is metaphorical: these plaques are intended to make people “stumble” mentally, prompting remembrance and reflection as part of daily life.

Visiting Information: Hours, Accessibility, and Tour Options

Visiting Hours

The Stolperstein for Dr. Kurt Lehmann is located outdoors at Schillerstraße 3 and is accessible at any time, year-round. There are no tickets or entrance fees required, and no restrictions on visiting hours, as it is situated in a public space.

Accessibility

Physical Access: The Stolperstein is embedded flush with the sidewalk and is accessible to most visitors, including those with mobility challenges. Be mindful that some surrounding streets in Baden-Baden’s old town may be uneven or cobblestoned.
Wheelchair Access: Generally suitable for wheelchair users, though minor challenges may arise due to historic pavements.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours: Several local organizations and the Baden-Baden Tourist Office offer guided walking tours that include the Stolpersteine and other sites of Jewish heritage and WWII history. These tours often provide deeper narratives and historical context.
Commemorative Events: Annual remembrance events, particularly on Holocaust Memorial Day (January 27) and Kristallnacht anniversaries (November 9–10), may include ceremonies, guided walks, or stone-cleaning organized by local groups.

Travel Tips for Visiting the Stolperstein

Best Time to Visit: Daylight hours offer optimal visibility for reading the inscriptions and appreciating the memorial’s reflective brass surface.
Preparation: Learn about Dr. Lehmann’s life and the local Jewish community in advance using resources like Stolpersteine.eu.
Etiquette: Pause to read the inscription silently, and consider bringing a small flower or cleaning the stone as a sign of respect.
Photography: Discreet photography is permitted, but avoid blocking pedestrian paths or disturbing residents.
Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the pedestrian-friendly, occasionally cobblestoned streets.

Nearby Historical Sites & Attractions

Enhance your understanding of Baden-Baden’s layered heritage by visiting these locations:

Baden-Baden Synagogue: Reflects the city’s Jewish history and community resilience.
Jewish Museum Baden-Baden: Explores the contributions and experiences of local Jewish citizens.
Lichtental Cemetery: Final resting place of many notable Jewish individuals.
Altstadt (Old Town): Wander through medieval lanes and historic squares.
Kurhaus and Kurgarten: Icons of 19th-century spa culture.
Lichtentaler Allee: A scenic parkway ideal for contemplative walks.
Roman Bath Ruins and Friedrichsbad: Connect with Baden-Baden’s ancient spa tradition.

Visuals and Media

Explore digital maps and virtual tours of Stolpersteine via Stolpersteine.eu and the Baden-Baden tourism website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need to buy tickets to visit the Stolperstein for Dr. Kurt Lehmann?
A: No, the Stolperstein is a public memorial accessible free of charge, 24/7.

Q: Are there official visiting hours?
A: Stolpersteine can be visited at any time, as they are located outdoors in public spaces.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided walking tours are offered by local organizations and the Baden-Baden Tourist Office.

Q: Is the Stolperstein accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the stone is set at street level and accessible, though some streets may be uneven.

Q: Can I take photographs of the Stolperstein?
A: Discreet photography is permitted. Please be respectful of the memorial’s solemnity.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: To preserve the dignity of the site, pets are not permitted.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Stolperstein for Dr. Kurt Lehmann offers a meaningful, accessible way to engage with Baden-Baden’s history, honoring the memory of individuals affected by National Socialism. Its presence in the city’s daily life exemplifies the importance of remembrance and education. To deepen your experience, consider participating in a guided tour, attending a local remembrance event, or exploring further with the Audiala app for self-guided audio tours. Stay up to date on events and historical insights by following official channels and supporting local remembrance initiatives.