The memorial and its purpose
The Stolperstein dedicated to Alice Deichmann is part of Karlsruhe’s network of memorials to people persecuted by the Nazi regime. Stolpersteine (“stumbling stones”) are small brass plaques set into sidewalks, usually at a victim’s last freely chosen residence or workplace. They bring remembrance into everyday urban spaces and commemorate individuals rather than only recording the scale of persecution (Stolpersteine.eu).
Karlsruhe has installed more than 300 Stolpersteine. The city’s memorials honor Jewish victims as well as Sinti and Roma, disabled people, political dissidents, and others persecuted by the Nazis (tripsavvy.com).
History and local context
The project was initiated by artist Gunter Demnig in the early 1990s. It began in Germany in the mid-1990s, and the first stone was unofficially laid in Cologne in 1996, coinciding with the anniversary of Himmler’s Auschwitz Decree (fabriziomusacchio.com).
Each stone is hand-engraved with a victim’s name, birth date, fate and, if known, date of death (migration-lab.net). A stone generally measures around 10 x 10 cm and has a concrete base with a brass plate. Installation involves the artist, local authorities and private sponsors (karlsruhe.de).
Karlsruhe installed its first Stolpersteine in 2005 (ka.stadtwiki.net). Local schools, historical societies, relatives and community groups take part in installations and ceremonies. Schools and community groups also research biographies, organize events and help maintain the stones, making remembrance an ongoing community activity (Stolpersteine Karlsruhe).
The project’s approach has prompted debate. Some critics, including members of Jewish communities, are uncomfortable with memorial stones being placed underfoot; supporters see remembrance in everyday spaces as central to the project’s impact (fabriziomusacchio.com).
The Stolperstein for Alice Deichmann
Alice Deichmann was a Jewish resident of Karlsruhe who was persecuted and likely murdered by the Nazis. Her Stolperstein is at her last known address and commemorates her as part of the citywide effort to preserve individual stories and honor Karlsruhe’s Jewish community (Stadtgeschichte Karlsruhe).
The 10 x 10 cm plaque is embedded in the sidewalk. Its inscription gives her name, birth date and fate. Karlsruhe’s interactive remembrance map provides the memorial’s exact location (Stadtgeschichte Karlsruhe).
Practical visiting information
Hours, tickets and access
Stolpersteine are in public sidewalks and can be visited at any time. There are no official hours or restrictions; the memorial to Alice Deichmann is accessible 24/7. Visits are free, with no tickets or admission fees.
The stones are flush with the pavement and are generally accessible to visitors with mobility aids, but take care on busy sidewalks.
Tips for a respectful visit
- Use a digital map or app to plan your route, and visit during daylight for better visibility.
- Pause to read the inscription and reflect on Alice Deichmann’s life.
- Approach the memorial respectfully and avoid stepping on the stone if possible.
- A small stone or flower can be left as a gesture of respect.
- Visitors can participate in maintenance or cleaning events, share Alice Deichmann’s story on social media, or support remembrance initiatives through participation or sponsorship.
Nearby places
A visit can be combined with Karlsruhe Palace or the Jewish Cemetery Karlsruhe. Other nearby historical sites mentioned for an extended visit include the Hauptfriedhof memorial, the Karlsruhe City Museum and local synagogues.
Frequently asked questions
What are Stolpersteine?
Small brass plaques set in public pavements to commemorate individual victims of Nazi persecution.
Do I need tickets to visit?
No. Visits are free.
Are Stolpersteine accessible?
They are generally accessible because they are flush with the pavement, but take care on busy sidewalks.
Where can I find a map?
Karlsruhe’s interactive remembrance map, online resources such as Wikimedia Commons and mobile apps can help locate Stolpersteine.
Can I sponsor a Stolperstein?
Yes. Sponsorship is possible through Stolpersteine.eu.
