Stolperstein memorial stone for Nathan Simon in Karlsruhe, Germany

Stolperstein Dedicated To Nathan Simon

Stolperstein Nathan Simon Karlsruhe: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Visiting the Stolperstein dedicated to Nathan Simon in Karlsruhe, Germany, is a meaningful way to engage with the city’s layered Holocaust history and the personal stories of its victims. Stolpersteine, or “stumbling stones,” are small brass plaques embedded in sidewalks in front of victims’ last freely chosen residences or workplaces. Initiated by artist Gunter Demnig in the early 1990s, this project has become the world’s largest grassroots Holocaust remembrance initiative, with over 100,000 stones installed across Europe as of 2025 (Stolpersteine Guide, Germany.info). Karlsruhe has embraced the Stolpersteine project since 2005, commemorating Jewish citizens, political dissidents, and other persecuted groups. Nathan Simon’s Stolperstein at Kaiserstraße 201 is a profound invitation to reflect on the city’s Jewish heritage and the devastating impact of Nazi persecution (ka.stadtwiki.net).

This guide offers comprehensive information for visitors—including historical context, cultural significance, practical details, and guidance for engaging respectfully with the memorial. It also highlights nearby historical sites and community initiatives sustaining remembrance and education. Whether you are a history enthusiast, educator, or traveler, this resource aims to deepen your understanding of Karlsruhe’s ongoing commitment to Holocaust memory (bnn.de, pragueviews.com).

The Stolpersteine Project: Origins and Concept

The Stolpersteine project was launched by Gunter Demnig to bring the memory of Nazi victims into everyday urban life. Each Stolperstein is a 10 x 10 cm brass plaque embedded at the victim’s last home or workplace, inscribed with their name, birth date, fate, and, if known, date and place of death (Germany.info). The term “stumbling” refers to the metaphorical act of pausing and reflecting on the stories beneath one’s feet. This decentralized approach transforms city streets into living memorials interwoven with daily routines (ka.stadtwiki.net).

Scope and Expansion in Europe and Germany

Since its inception, the Stolpersteine project has become the world’s largest decentralized Holocaust memorial. By 2025, over 100,000 stones have been laid in more than 1,100 locations across 31 European countries (stolpersteine.eu). The project honors not only Jewish victims, but also Sinti and Roma, political dissidents, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and others persecuted by the Nazi regime (ka.stadtwiki.net).

Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe

Introduction and Development

Karlsruhe joined the Stolpersteine project in 2005, and by 2025 has installed nearly 300 stones at 61 locations across the city (stadtwiki Karlsruhe). Victims commemorated include Jews, Sinti and Roma, political dissidents, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and others. The project is actively supported by organizations like the Förderverein Karlsruher Stadtgeschichte e.V., schools, and city administration (stolpersteine-karlsruhe.jimdofree.com).

Community Involvement and Education

Community engagement is central to Karlsruhe’s Stolpersteine. Schools such as Kant-Gymnasium integrate research on victims into their curriculum, fostering empathy and awareness among students (ka-news.de). Installation ceremonies, often attended by descendants, officials, and the public, include readings and moments of reflection.

Nathan Simon: His Life and Fate

Biographical Background

Nathan Simon was born on October 11, 1872, in Pohl-Göns, Hessen. In 1911, he and his wife Paula (née Haas) moved to Karlsruhe and established “Schuhhaus Simon” on Kaiserstraße (gedenkbuch.karlsruhe.de). The family became well-integrated into local society and rebuilt their business after World War I.

Persecution and Tragedy

After 1933, the Simons faced mounting Nazi persecution. Their shop was destroyed during Kristallnacht in 1938; Nathan and his son Erich were arrested, with Erich sent to Dachau concentration camp and Nathan released due to age (gedenkbuch.karlsruhe.de). Erich later emigrated, but Nathan and Paula remained in Germany and ultimately became victims of the Holocaust.

Visiting Nathan Simon’s Stolperstein: Practical Guide

Location and Access

Address: Kaiserstraße 201, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany
Neighborhood: City center, steps from shops, public transport, and historical sites.
Accessibility: Embedded in the sidewalk, accessible to pedestrians and wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Public Transport: Tram stops “Europaplatz” and “Marktplatz” are nearby.
By Car: Public garages available, but expect city center traffic.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours: Open access, 24/7; best viewed in daylight for optimal visibility.
Tickets: No entry fee or ticket required.

Guided Tours

Local organizations and the Karlsruhe Tourist Office offer walking tours focused on Stolpersteine, including Nathan Simon’s memorial. For independent visitors, the Stolpersteine Guide app provides maps, biographies, and suggested routes.

Visitor Etiquette

Respect: Remain quiet and respectful; avoid blocking the sidewalk.
Photography: Permitted, but be discreet.
Commemoration: It is customary to place small stones or flowers on the Stolperstein.

Best Times to Visit

Early mornings or late afternoons offer quieter, more contemplative experiences. Special ceremonies occur on Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) and Kristallnacht anniversary (November 9).

Additional Historical Sites Near Nathan Simon’s Stolperstein

Former Synagogue Site: Commemorated by a plaque, recalling the synagogue destroyed in 1938.
Jewish Cemetery: Holds graves from the 19th century.
Other Stolpersteine: Numerous stones throughout Karlsruhe’s city center (Mapcarta: Knielingen Stolperstein).
Karlsruhe Palace and Museums: Enrich your visit with local history and culture.

Preservation and Community Engagement

Stolpersteine are maintained by local volunteers, schools, and remembrance organizations. Regular cleaning and commemorative events keep the memory of Nathan Simon and others alive, particularly on remembrance anniversaries (Stolpersteine Guide).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where are Stolpersteine located in Karlsruhe?
They are scattered citywide, usually near victims’ last residences. Central neighborhoods like Kaiserstraße and Hoffstraße have higher concentrations.

Are they accessible to wheelchair users?
Yes, as most are in public sidewalks, though some cobblestone areas may require caution.

Is there a ticket or fee?
No, Stolpersteine are free, public memorials.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, local organizations and the Tourist Office offer tours. The Stolpersteine Guide app is also helpful.

How should I behave at the memorial?
Visit respectfully, avoid loud conversation, and consider small acts of commemoration.

Visuals and Media

Nathan Simon’s Stolperstein in Karlsruhe
(Wikimedia Commons image)

Maps, virtual tours, and more photographs are available via the Stolpersteine Guide and Karlsruhe tourism sites.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Download the Stolpersteine Guide app for self-guided tours and biographies.
Check local tourism websites for up-to-date tour schedules and events.
Engage with local organizations and consider supporting their memorial efforts.
Follow remembrance days for special ceremonies and community events.

Conclusion

The Stolperstein for Nathan Simon and others in Karlsruhe offers a profound, personal connection to the city’s Holocaust history. These memorials transform ordinary city streets into spaces of reflection and learning, fostering remembrance for future generations. By visiting and engaging respectfully, you help sustain a culture of memory and vigilance against intolerance.