
Visiting the Stolperstein for Emilie Barbara Greiner in Baden-Baden, Germany: Comprehensive Guide and Itinerary Tips
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Baden-Baden, a city renowned for its spa culture and elegant architecture, also bears witness to a profound history of remembrance through its Stolpersteine—or “stumbling stones.” These small brass plaques, created by German artist Gunter Demnig, are embedded into city sidewalks to commemorate victims of Nazi persecution. Among these is the Stolperstein dedicated to Emilie Barbara Greiner, a Jewish resident whose life was tragically ended by the Nazi regime. This guide provides historical context, practical visiting details, and thoughtful ways to engage with this vital memorial (Holocaust Educational Trust; Stadtwiki Baden-Baden).
What are Stolpersteine?
Stolpersteine are 10x10 cm brass plaques installed flush with sidewalks outside the last freely chosen residences of Nazi victims. Each stone bears the individual’s name, birth year, fate, and, when known, the date and place of death. Since the project’s inception in the 1990s, Stolpersteine have become the world’s largest decentralized memorial, making remembrance a part of everyday urban life (Holocaust Educational Trust).
Stolpersteine in Baden-Baden: Local History
The Stolpersteine project in Baden-Baden began in 2008, with over 200 stones now installed across the city. The local museum and archive have played a pivotal role, coordinating research and educational programs that involve schools and descendants of victims (Stadtarchiv Baden-Baden Stolpersteine PDF). These efforts ensure that the names and stories of those persecuted—like Emilie Barbara Greiner—are not forgotten (Wikipedia; Gedenkbuch Baden-Baden).
Emilie Barbara Greiner: Her Story
Emilie Barbara Greiner, born in 1882, was a Jewish resident of Baden-Baden. She was institutionalized and became a victim of the Nazi Aktion T4 euthanasia program. Her Stolperstein marks her last freely chosen address, restoring her name and story to the city’s collective memory (Gedenkbuch Baden-Baden).
Cultural and Memorial Significance
Decentralized Remembrance
Stolpersteine bring remembrance into public space, prompting spontaneous reflection from residents and visitors as they encounter these memorials during daily life. This approach personalizes history and makes it inescapable, democratizing memory and ensuring that the atrocities of the past remain present in public consciousness.
Educational Initiatives
Baden-Baden’s Stolpersteine project is closely linked with educational programs. Local schools research and present the biographies of victims, creating a personal connection with history for new generations. Student initiatives include cleaning campaigns and creative projects, furthering community engagement (Stadtarchiv Baden-Baden Stolpersteine PDF).
Artistic and Personal Connections
Art competitions and exhibitions, such as “Weil eine Zahl keinen Namen hat,” encourage personal reflection and artistic engagement with the Stolpersteine. The involvement of survivors, descendants, and the local Jewish community deepens the memorial’s significance.
Visiting the Stolperstein for Emilie Barbara Greiner
Location and Accessibility
Emilie Barbara Greiner’s Stolperstein is located at her last freely chosen residence in a residential area within Baden-Baden’s historic center. Maps and precise addresses are available from the Baden-Baden Tourist Information Center and Arbeitskreis Stolpersteine Baden-Baden. The memorial is accessible year-round, free of charge, and suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Stolpersteine are public memorials and can be visited at any time; no tickets or reservations are required.
Guided Tours and Educational Walks
Local organizations and tour operators offer guided historical walks that include Stolpersteine and other key memorial sites. For details, check with the Tourist Information Center or contact the Arbeitskreis Stolpersteine Baden-Baden.
Responsible Visitation
Visitors are encouraged to approach with respect—avoid standing directly on the stone, and consider placing a small flower or stone as a sign of remembrance. Cleaning the Stolperstein is a local tradition and a meaningful gesture.
Suggested Itinerary: Integrating Remembrance with Exploration
Morning:
- Collect Stolpersteine maps and historical information from the Tourist Information Center.
- Visit the former site of the Grand Synagogue, destroyed during Kristallnacht, to gain context (abc.net.au).
Midday:
- Walk to Emilie Barbara Greiner’s Stolperstein and spend time in reflection.
- Continue to other Stolpersteine nearby to deepen your understanding of the city’s history.
Afternoon:
- Relax in Kurpark or Lichtentaler Allee, or visit local museums such as Stadtmuseum Baden-Baden or Museum Frieder Burda.
Evening:
- Enjoy Baden-Baden’s café culture, reflecting on the day’s experiences and the enduring relevance of remembrance.
Combining Remembrance with Cultural Experiences
Baden-Baden offers a rich blend of history, wellness, and culture. Consider pairing your Stolpersteine visit with:
- The Kurhaus and its gardens
- The Roman Bath Ruins
- The Fabergé Museum
- Spa visits at Caracalla or Friedrichsbad
- Walks through the Altstadt and other religious or multicultural sites (wanderingermany.com; mapcarta.com)
Practical Visitor Tips
- Accessibility: Most Stolpersteine are on flat sidewalks, but some areas have cobblestones; wear comfortable shoes.
- Weather: Baden-Baden has a mild climate, but check forecasts before your visit.
- Respectful Conduct: These are solemn sites; maintain quiet and be mindful of the memorial’s purpose.
- Photography: Discreet photos are allowed, but always prioritize respect.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where is Emilie Barbara Greiner’s Stolperstein located?
A: At her last freely chosen residence in Baden-Baden; contact the Tourist Information Center or Arbeitskreis Stolpersteine Baden-Baden for the exact address.
Q: Are there visiting hours or tickets required?
A: No. Stolpersteine are accessible 24/7, free of charge.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes. Inquire at the Tourist Information Center or with the Arbeitskreis Stolpersteine for guided remembrance walks.
Q: Are the Stolpersteine accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, most are at street level and accessible, though some areas may have uneven surfaces.
Q: Can I participate in memorial events?
A: Stolperstein ceremonies are open to the public and often include music, readings, and presentations by local schools and community members.
Further Resources and Support
- Holocaust Educational Trust
- Stadtwiki Baden-Baden
- Stadtarchiv Baden-Baden Stolpersteine PDF
- Gedenkbuch Baden-Baden
- goodnews4.de
- Baden-Baden Official Tourism
- Arbeitskreis Stolpersteine Baden-Baden
- Wikipedia: Liste der Stolpersteine in Baden-Baden
Conclusion
Visiting the Stolperstein for Emilie Barbara Greiner in Baden-Baden is a moving opportunity to engage with the city’s history and to honor those who suffered under National Socialism. The Stolpersteine project transforms public space into a living memorial, democratizing remembrance and fostering public reflection. Whether you visit independently or as part of a guided tour, your engagement helps ensure that the memory of Emilie Barbara Greiner and countless others endures for generations.
For more in-depth experiences, download the Audiala app for curated walking tours and audio guides, and explore related articles for further insights into Baden-Baden’s historical and cultural heritage.
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