Stolperstein memorial dedicated to Mina Baer in Karlsruhe, Germany

Stolperstein Dedicated To Mina Baer

Stolperstein Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide in Karlsruhe, Germany

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Stolpersteine (“stumbling stones”) are small brass plaques set into the sidewalks of European cities to honor the victims of Nazi persecution. In Karlsruhe, Germany, these memorials form an open-air tapestry of remembrance, inviting residents and visitors to encounter history in everyday spaces. This guide provides detailed information on the Stolperstein dedicated to Mina Baer, including its historical context, cultural significance, visitor information, and practical tips for a meaningful visit.

Introduction
Historical Background: Mina Baer and the Baer Family
The Stolperstein Project: Origins and Significance
Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe: Local Context and Locations
Visiting the Stolperstein for Mina Baer
Practical Tips for Visitors
Special Events and Remembrance Activities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Digital and Visual Resources
Conclusion and Call to Action
Sources and Official Links

Historical Background: Mina Baer and the Baer Family

Mina Baer was born in 1859 into Karlsruhe’s Jewish community. Her family, the Baers, were active participants in the social and cultural life of the city before World War II. Like many Jewish citizens, Mina’s fate was tragically altered by the Nazi regime. She was deported in 1942 to the Gurs internment camp in France, where she perished. Other members of her family, including her son Karl and daughter-in-law Rosalie, were murdered in Auschwitz (Traces of War; Karlsruhe Stolpersteine der Familie Baer).

The Stolperstein Project: Origins and Significance

Origins and Concept

Initiated by German artist Gunter Demnig in 1992, the Stolperstein project aims to commemorate victims of National Socialism by embedding brass plaques outside their last freely chosen residences. Each Stolperstein is inscribed with the individual’s name, birthdate, fate, and, when known, the date and place of death (Stolpersteine.eu).

Cultural and Memorial Impact

With over 100,000 stones installed across Europe as of 2025, Stolpersteine represent the world’s largest decentralized memorial. Their placement in public spaces ensures that the memory of the victims is interwoven with urban life, transforming ordinary streets into sites of reflection (Stolpersteine.eu; pragueviews.com).

Community Involvement

In Karlsruhe, local residents, schools, and organizations are deeply engaged in researching, funding, and maintaining Stolpersteine. Family members from around the world have participated in commemorative events, underscoring the enduring relevance of these memorials (ka-news.de).

Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe: Local Context and Locations

Karlsruhe joined the Stolperstein project in 2005, and more than 300 stones now mark the last residences of victims throughout the city (Karlsruhe City Wiki). These memorials are found in neighborhoods such as Innenstadt, Weststadt, Durlach, and Südweststadt. Key locations include Hoffstraße (site of the first stones) and Schnetzlerstraße, home to the Baer family Stolpersteine.

Visitors can plan self-guided walking tours with interactive maps (Stolpersteine Karlsruhe), or join guided tours offered by local organizations.

Visiting the Stolperstein for Mina Baer

Location and Accessibility

Address: Schnetzlerstraße 4, Südweststadt, Karlsruhe (Karlsruhe Stolpersteine der Familie Baer)
Public Transport: Accessible via tram and bus; nearby stops connect to the city center (Karlsruhe public transport).
By Car: Limited street parking is available.
On Foot/Bike: The area is walkable and suitable for bicycles.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Hours: Open 24/7.
Admission: Free; no tickets or reservations required.

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Local historical societies and museums occasionally offer guided Stolperstein walks. These tours provide context, stories, and often include stops at other significant sites. Tours may be available in multiple languages; check with Karlsruhe Tourism for current offerings.

Nearby Attractions

Karlsruhe Palace – a major historical landmark and museum.
Baden State Museum – documenting regional history.
Karlsruhe Synagogue – a key site of Jewish heritage.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Daylight hours are best for reading inscriptions.
Accessibility: The sidewalk is generally accessible, but minor unevenness may occur.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, and optionally a soft cloth to help clean the stone as an act of remembrance.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Respect: Treat the site as a place of remembrance. Avoid obstructing pathways and keep noise levels low.
Commemoration: Placing a small stone or flower on the Stolperstein is a traditional gesture of honor.
Photography: Discreet photography is welcome for educational purposes.
Preparation: Reading about the Baer family and Holocaust history in Karlsruhe before your visit will enhance your understanding (Stadtarchiv Karlsruhe).
Community Events: Look out for annual cleaning events and memorial ceremonies, especially around Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Special Events and Remembrance Activities

Karlsruhe hosts annual ceremonies, cleaning events, and educational workshops focused on Stolpersteine. These programs, often organized by schools, community organizations, and the Jewish community, foster intergenerational engagement and sustain the legacy of remembrance (bnn.de).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there any admission fees or tickets for visiting Stolpersteine?
A: No, Stolpersteine are public memorials accessible at all times without charge.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, local groups offer guided Stolperstein and Jewish heritage tours. Check with Karlsruhe Tourism for current schedules.

Q: Is the Stolperstein for Mina Baer wheelchair accessible?
A: The sidewalk is generally accessible, though minor unevenness is possible.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, respectful photography for personal or educational use is permitted.

Q: Where can I find maps of Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe?
A: Interactive and printable maps are available at the Stolpersteine Karlsruhe website and mapcarta.com.

Digital and Visual Resources

Official Stolpersteine Website: Stolpersteine.eu
Karlsruhe Stolpersteine Database: ka.stadtwiki.net
Interactive Maps and Images: Stolpersteine Karlsruhe
Local Archives: Stadtarchiv Karlsruhe

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Stolperstein for Mina Baer is more than a historical marker—it is a living memorial that invites reflection, remembrance, and education. By visiting this site and others in Karlsruhe, you engage directly with the stories of those who were persecuted and help ensure their memories endure.