Stolpersteine for Irma Billigheimer and Family in Karlsruhe: A Visitor’s Guide
Introduction
The Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe offer a poignant and personal encounter with the city’s Holocaust history. These small, brass memorials, embedded in the pavement, commemorate individuals persecuted by the Nazi regime. This guide focuses on the Stolpersteine for Irma Billigheimer, her husband Kurt, and their daughters Ingrid and Hannelore, providing historical context, practical information for visitors, and resources for further learning.
The Stolperstein Project: A Decentralized Memorial
Conceived by German artist Gunter Demnig, the Stolpersteine project is the world’s largest decentralized memorial. Each stone marks the last freely chosen residence of a victim, bearing their name, date of birth, and fate. This personalized approach fosters individual remembrance within the everyday urban landscape. (Stolpersteine official site) As of 2025, over 100,000 Stolpersteine have been placed across more than 26 countries. (pragueviews.com)
The Story of Irma Billigheimer and Her Family
The Stolpersteine at Jollystraße 41 commemorate Irma Billigheimer (née Hochherr), her husband Kurt, and their daughters Ingrid and Hannelore. They were members of Karlsruhe’s Jewish community, deported to Gurs internment camp in France on October 22, 1940, along with thousands of other Jews from Baden. (ka-news.de; Stolpersteine Karlsruhe) Irma and her daughters were later transported to Auschwitz and murdered. Kurt also perished in Auschwitz in 1944. Their story reflects the tragic fate of countless families during the Holocaust. (ka-news.de)
Visiting the Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe
Location and Accessibility
The Billigheimer family’s Stolpersteine are located at Jollystraße 41 in Karlsruhe’s Südweststadt district. The site is accessible 24/7 and free of charge. The area is well-served by public transport, and the stones are embedded in the pavement at street level, generally accessible to all. (ka.stadtwiki.net)
Guided Tours and Resources
Local organizations offer guided tours that provide deeper historical context and personal stories related to the Stolpersteine. The Förderverein Karlsruher Stadtgeschichte e.V. is a valuable resource for information about the Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe. (stolpersteine-karlsruhe.jimdofree.com; ka.stadtwiki.net)
Nearby Points of Interest
Consider combining your visit with other nearby historical sites:
- Karlsruhe Synagogue: ([Link to Synagogue information - if available])
- Baden State Museum: ([Link to Museum information - if available])
- Karlsruhe Palace: ([Link to Palace information - if available])
Respectful Visitation
Photographing the Stolpersteine is encouraged to document and share these important memorials. However, always maintain respect for the site and the memory of the victims. Avoid loud conversations and disruptive behavior. Consider bringing a small stone or flower to place by the stones, a traditional Jewish custom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What are the visiting hours for the Stolpersteine? They are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Is there an entrance fee? No, the Stolpersteine are freely accessible public memorials.
- Are guided tours available? Yes, contact local tourist information or historical societies for details.
- Are the Stolpersteine accessible to people with mobility impairments? Generally, yes, as they are embedded in the sidewalk. However, be mindful of typical urban pavement conditions.
Conclusion
The Stolpersteine for Irma Billigheimer and her family offer a powerful and personal way to engage with the history of the Holocaust in Karlsruhe. By visiting these memorials, we remember the victims and reflect on the importance of tolerance and human rights.
Image: Stolpersteine for the Billigheimer family at Jollystraße 41, Karlsruhe (Alt text: “Stolpersteine commemorating the Billigheimer family in Karlsruhe”) Map: Location of Jollystraße 41 in Karlsruhe (Embed interactive map link)
For audio guides and further information on Karlsruhe’s historical sites, download the Audiala app.
