Stolperstein Dedicated to Hedwig Kühn

What the Stolpersteine are

Stolpersteine (“stumbling stones”) are small, brass plaques set into pavements to commemorate people persecuted and murdered by the Nazi regime. The Stolperstein dedicated to Hedwig Kühn in Karlsruhe honors a victim of the Nazi T4 euthanasia program. Set at her last residence, it is part of a decentralized memorial that brings individual histories into everyday public spaces.

The project aims to restore names and stories to public memory and prompt a “mental stumble”—a moment of reflection—rather than a physical one. Each stone is hand-inscribed with a victim’s name, birthdate and fate, and, when known, the date and place of death.

History and local context

Founded in 1992 by Cologne artist Gunter Demnig, the Stolpersteine project has become the world’s largest decentralized memorial to victims of National Socialism. As of 2024, more than 107,000 stones had been installed across nearly 1,900 communities (Wikipedia: List of places with Stolpersteine, Stiftung Spuren Gunter Demnig). By 2025, more than 107,000 Stolpersteine had been placed across Europe (Folklife Magazine).

Demnig initially installed the stones himself. Production is now managed by Berlin sculptor Michael Friedrichs-Friedländer and his atelier, which crafts 400–500 stones monthly. Local residents, organizations and descendants typically sponsor stones, with research carried out alongside local archives to check details (Stiftung Spuren Gunter Demnig).

Karlsruhe has taken part in the project since the early 2000s. Nearly 300 stones throughout the city commemorate Jewish citizens, political dissidents, Sinti and Roma, people with disabilities, and other groups persecuted by the Nazis (BNN Karlsruhe). Installations can include public ceremonies involving residents, schools and descendants. The Hedwig Kühn memorial reflects the city’s work to honor victims and educate the public about Nazi persecution (Documentation Center NS-Persecution in Karlsruhe).

Schools, civic groups and residents research Stolperstein biographies, often working with the city archive. This community involvement encourages intergenerational dialogue and engagement with local history (BNN Karlsruhe).

The project has also faced criticism. In Munich, some people consider sidewalk memorials disrespectful, and the city restricts Stolpersteine to private property. The project’s decentralized approach allows for local adaptation (Folklife Magazine).

What to see

The Stolperstein for Hedwig Kühn

Hedwig Kühn’s stone is among the Stolpersteine placed at victims’ last residences in Karlsruhe. Its research, installation and upkeep involve students, historians and community members. The stone commemorates Kühn, a victim of the Nazi T4 euthanasia program.

Use the city’s interactive map of remembrance sites to locate Stolpersteine and other memorials.

Remembrance events and upkeep

Public ceremonies and cleaning events take place around remembrance dates, including International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27 and Kristallnacht on November 9 (Folklife Magazine). Events are also held throughout the year. In Karlsruhe, groups such as the Reservistenkameradschaft (RK) Karlsruhe organize cleaning campaigns, particularly around key remembrance dates (RK Karlsruhe).

Practical visiting information

• Hours Stolpersteine are set in public sidewalks and accessible 24/7.
• Tickets and cost There is no charge to visit. Guided tours and special events may require advance booking or tickets.
• Accessibility Most sites are accessible to visitors with mobility aids and wheelchairs, though some older sidewalks may be uneven. For specific questions, contact Karlsruhe Tourist Information.
• Tourist Information The office at Kaiserstrasse 72-74 provides maps, brochures and assistance (Karlsruhe Tourist Information).
• Getting there Walk or cycle from the city center, or use KVV public transport.
• Amenities Cafés, shops and public toilets are available nearby (Karlsruhe public toilets).
• Guided tours Karlsruhe offers tours focused on Stolpersteine and Holocaust memorials. They typically last 1.5 to 2 hours and can be booked through the Tourist Information office or online (Karlsruhe City Calendar, CityTour Karlsruhe). Group tours for schools and civic organizations are available on request.
• Educational visits Schools and groups can arrange visits through local institutions.

Tips for visiting

• Pause to read the inscription and reflect.
• Gently polishing Stolpersteine is a local tradition; community cleaning campaigns also take place.
• Flowers or pebbles can be left to honor the person commemorated.
• Photography is allowed; be respectful and avoid disturbing residents.
• Keep a quiet, respectful atmosphere during group visits.
• For self-guided exploration, use the interactive map. Remembrance events, educational programs and resources such as the Audiala app offer other ways to engage with the stories commemorated.

Nearby places

• Karlsruhe Palace and Museum The city’s baroque palace and historical exhibitions.
• Memorial at the Site of the Former Synagogue Commemorates the Jewish community destroyed during the Nazi era.
• ZKM Center for Art and Media Offers contemporary cultural experiences.

Maps and guidance are available from the Tourist Information office.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need tickets to visit Stolpersteine?
No. They are freely accessible.

Are Stolpersteine wheelchair accessible?
Most are, but some older sidewalks may be uneven.

Can I photograph Stolpersteine?
Yes, respectfully.

Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours can be booked through CityTour Karlsruhe.