Stolperstein memorial dedicated to Lina Cohn in Karlsruhe, Germany

Stolperstein Dedicated To Lina Cohn

Stolperstein Lina Cohn Karlsruhe: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Stolpersteine—“stumbling stones”—are a unique, decentralized memorial project that embed the memory of Nazi persecution directly into the urban fabric of Europe. Conceived by German artist Gunter Demnig, these small brass plaques are set into sidewalks in front of the last freely chosen residences of those persecuted and murdered by the Nazis. Karlsruhe, an active participant in this project, is home to over 300 Stolpersteine as of 2025. Among them, the Stolperstein dedicated to Lina Cohn stands as a powerful testament to personal tragedy and the enduring importance of remembrance.

This guide details the history behind the Stolpersteine project, Lina Cohn’s story, practical visitor information—such as locations, accessibility, and tours—as well as tips for engaging meaningfully with these memorials (IamExpat; Wikipedia).

The Stolpersteine Project: Origins and Meaning

Stolpersteine are 10x10 cm concrete cubes topped with a hand-engraved brass plate. Each plate bears the name, birth date, fate, and, when known, the place and date of death of a victim of Nazi persecution. Initiated in 1992, the project’s guiding principle is that “A person is only forgotten when their name is forgotten.” This ethos seeks to restore the identities of those lost to history by placing their names in public view (Germany.info; Stolpersteine.eu).

As of 2025, more than 100,000 Stolpersteine have been installed in over 1,900 locations across Europe, making it the world’s largest decentralized Holocaust memorial (IamExpat; Wikipedia).

Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe

Karlsruhe joined the Stolpersteine project in 2005, with the first eleven stones laid at Hoffstraße 1. Today, the city’s Stolpersteine commemorate Jewish citizens, Sinti and Roma, political dissidents, religious minorities, and others persecuted by the Nazi regime (Stadtwiki Karlsruhe). The stones are distributed across neighborhoods, often near significant landmarks or the victims’ former homes.

Community engagement is central to Karlsruhe’s approach: volunteers regularly clean and maintain the stones, and public cleaning events are held to keep the inscriptions visible (BNN). Local organizations, such as the Reservistenkameradschaft Karlsruhe, also play an active role in ongoing care (RK Karlsruhe).

The Story of Lina Cohn and Her Stolperstein

Lina Marie Rosa Cohn, together with her husband Dr. Erich Cohn, were prominent members of Karlsruhe’s Jewish community. Owners of the respected “Buchhandlung Bielefeld” bookstore, their lives were upended by Nazi persecution. Dr. Erich Cohn was arrested and deported to Izbica, Poland, in 1942, where he was murdered. Lina Cohn, facing relentless harassment, took her own life in 1941 after her husband’s arrest (Stadtwiki Karlsruhe; Traces of War).

Their Stolpersteine were installed on March 19, 2008, outside their former home at Beiertheimer Allee 28. The installation was sponsored by the current bookstore owners, now “Der Fliegende Buchhändler,” who remain committed to preserving this important memory (Stadtwiki Karlsruhe).

Visiting Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe: Practical Information

Locations and How to Find Them

Stolpersteine are scattered throughout Karlsruhe, typically in front of victims’ last freely chosen residences. You can find their locations via:

Stadtgeschichte Karlsruhe (official city map)
Stolpersteine Guide app
Stolpersteine Karlsruhe app

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Stolpersteine are embedded in public sidewalks and accessible 24/7. There are no tickets or reservations required. Visitors are welcome at any time, free of charge.

Accessibility

Most Stolpersteine are located in public spaces and accessible to all, though some may be on uneven pavement. For detailed accessibility advice, contact the Karlsruhe Tourist Information.

Directions and Transportation

Public Transport: Reach central stops like Marktplatz (Pyramide U) via S-Bahn lines S1/S11, S2, S4, S8, and S52.
By Car: Parking is available in garages such as “Schlossplatz.” Follow signage for “Karlsruhe-Nord/Zentrum Nord.”
Cycling: Karlsruhe is bike-friendly, and e-bikes can be charged at the Tourist Information center (Karlsruhe Tourist Information).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Book guided Stolperstein tours via the city’s tourism office or local history groups.
Special remembrance events occur around International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) and Kristallnacht (November).
Community cleaning events invite participation from locals and visitors (BNN).

Nearby Historical Sites

While visiting Stolpersteine, you can also explore:

Karlsruhe Palace
Jewish Museum Karlsruhe
Additional Holocaust memorials and historic neighborhoods (e.g., Mühlburg, Durlach)

Tips for Engaging with Stolpersteine

Respect: Pause, read the inscription, and reflect. Many visitors leave small stones or flowers.
Photography: Discreet photos are permitted; respect residents’ privacy and the solemn nature of the memorials.
Participation: Join cleaning events or remembrance ceremonies to actively engage with the community (RK Karlsruhe).
Educational Tools: Use the Stolpersteine Guide app or Audiala app for self-guided tours and background stories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Stolpersteine?
Small brass plaques embedded in sidewalks, commemorating Nazi persecution victims at their last freely chosen residence.

Where can I find Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe?
Throughout city neighborhoods—use city maps, Stadtgeschichte Karlsruhe, or digital apps for detailed locations.

Are guided tours available?
Yes—book through the Karlsruhe tourism office or use apps for self-guided experiences.

Are tickets or reservations required?
No. Stolpersteine are public memorials, accessible at all times and free of charge.

Are the sites accessible for people with mobility needs?
Generally yes, though some may be on uneven surfaces. Consult the Tourist Information Center for assistance.

Visual Gallery

Alt text: Close-up of Stolpersteine embedded in a Karlsruhe sidewalk, engraved with names and dates. Alt text: Stolperstein dedicated to Lina Cohn at Beiertheimer Allee 28, Karlsruhe. Alt text: Interactive map showing Stolpersteine locations throughout Karlsruhe.

Responsible Remembrance and Community Engagement

Approach each Stolperstein with respect. Avoid stepping directly on the stones, speak quietly, and consider participating in local maintenance or remembrance activities. Supporting local organizations through donations or volunteering helps sustain the project and educational outreach (Stolpersteine Guide).

Conclusion and Recommendations

Visiting the Stolperstein for Lina Cohn offers a deeply personal perspective on history, connecting the city’s vibrant present to its tragic past. These memorials transform public spaces into sites of reflection, ensuring that the lives lost during the Holocaust are neither forgotten nor ignored. Enhance your visit by:

Using digital guides and city maps for context and navigation
Participating in community remembrance events
Exploring related historical sites and museums in Karlsruhe

By engaging thoughtfully, every visitor helps preserve the memory of Lina Cohn and countless others, supporting an ongoing culture of remembrance and tolerance.