
Stolperstein Rosali Wisnewsky Karlsruhe: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and History
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction: Stolperstein Rosali Wisnewsky and Its Significance in Karlsruhe
The Stolperstein dedicated to Rosali Wisnewsky in Karlsruhe, Germany, offers a direct and moving connection to the history of Holocaust victims within the city’s everyday environment. Stolpersteine—German for “stumbling stones”—are brass-plated memorials set into sidewalks in front of the last freely chosen residences of those persecuted by the Nazi regime. Initiated by artist Gunter Demnig in the early 1990s, this decentralized memorial now includes over 116,000 stones across Europe, with more than 300 in Karlsruhe alone. These memorials bring individual stories like that of Rosali Wisnewsky into the public eye, fostering ongoing reflection and remembrance (Stolpersteine Project, Karlsruhe City Archive).
Rosali Wisnewsky’s Stolperstein is located in the Mühlburg district—a historically significant area for Karlsruhe’s Jewish community—marking her final residence prior to her deportation and murder under the Nazi regime. Though detailed biographical data about her life remains limited, the presence of her Stolperstein stands as a symbol for thousands whose personal stories were cut short during this dark period. The memorial is freely accessible at all times, requiring no tickets or reservations, making it an accessible site for locals and visitors alike (Mapcarta, ka-news.de).
This guide covers the Stolperstein for Rosali Wisnewsky, practical visitor details, transport and accessibility, as well as the broader context of the Stolpersteine project in Karlsruhe. You’ll also find information about nearby historical sites, community efforts in memory work, and practical tips for a meaningful visit (Karlsruhe Stolpersteine, Holocaust Educational Trust).
Contents
- Biography of Rosali Wisnewsky
- The Stolperstein Project: Origins and Purpose
- Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe: History and Community Engagement
- Location, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility
- Getting There: Transport Options
- Best Visiting Times, Etiquette, and Tips
- Nearby Historical Sites and Attractions
- Cultural and Educational Context
- Rituals of Remembrance and Maintenance
- Controversies and Ongoing Debates
- Educational Opportunities and Guided Tours
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Digital Resources and Visuals
- Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
- References
Biography of Rosali Wisnewsky
Rosali Wisnewsky was one of many Jewish residents of Karlsruhe who fell victim to Nazi persecution. While specific details of her life remain scarce, her story is representative of the devastation wrought on Karlsruhe’s Jewish community. Before World War II, Karlsruhe’s Jewish citizens were deeply integrated into the city’s cultural, social, and economic life. With the rise of the Nazis, they faced exclusion, deportation, and murder. The Stolperstein for Wisnewsky is a quiet yet powerful reminder of her life and the lives of countless others (Stadtwiki Karlsruhe).
The Stolperstein Project: Origins and Purpose
Gunter Demnig’s Stolpersteine project began in the early 1990s as a grassroots effort to honor individual victims of the Nazi regime, including Jews, Roma and Sinti, political prisoners, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others (Holocaust Educational Trust). Each Stolperstein is a 10x10 cm concrete block with a hand-engraved brass plate, set into the pavement at the victim’s last freely chosen address. Passersby are invited to “stumble” across these names and stories as part of daily life, making remembrance a part of the urban landscape (Stolpersteine Project).
As of 2025, more than 116,000 Stolpersteine have been installed in over 1,800 cities and towns across Europe (Stolpersteine Project Facts & Figures).
Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe: History and Community Engagement
Installation and Grassroots Efforts
Karlsruhe joined the Stolpersteine project in 2004, with installations driven by volunteers, schools, and local organizations. The “Gedenkbuch Karlsruher Juden” memorial book, launched in 2002, compiles biographies and photographs of Karlsruhe’s Holocaust victims, underpinning the research for each Stolperstein (ka-news.de).
As of June 2025, there are over 300 Stolpersteine throughout the city, each marking the last home of a persecuted individual (Karlsruhe City Archive).
Community Involvement and Commemoration
Local councils, private donors, and community groups continue to support the Stolpersteine initiative. Annual remembrance events—such as International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) and the “Lichter gegen Dunkelheit” (Lights Against Darkness) vigil—are integral to Karlsruhe’s memory culture. School projects and volunteer research deepen public engagement (Stadtwiki Karlsruhe).
Location, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility
Location
The Stolperstein for Rosali Wisnewsky is set in the pavement in Karlsruhe’s Mühlburg district. The exact address can be found using the Karlsruhe City Archive’s interactive map. The stone is near Karlsruhe Händelstraße and St. Peter und Paul Church (Mapcarta), typical of Stolpersteine placement.
Visiting Hours and Tickets
- Public and freely accessible 24/7.
- No tickets or reservations required.
Accessibility
- The Stolperstein is embedded in the sidewalk and generally accessible to wheelchair users, though some areas may have uneven pavement.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Getting There: Transport Options
- Public Transport: Accessible via Karlsruhe’s tram lines 1, 3, and 4, and S-Bahn lines S1, S2, S5, S11. The nearest stop is Karlsruhe Herrenstraße, about 60 meters from the Stolperstein (Karlsruhe Transport).
- By Car: Paid parking is available at Herrenstraße BBB, also about 60 meters away.
- Cycling and Walking: Karlsruhe’s city center is bike and pedestrian-friendly.
Best Visiting Times, Etiquette, and Tips
- Recommended Times: Year-round, but especially on Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) or during other local commemorative events for a deeper experience.
- Etiquette:
- Approach with respect; pause and read the inscription.
- It is customary to clean the Stolperstein gently with a soft cloth.
- Small stones, flowers, or candles may be placed beside the stone as a mark of respect.
- Discreet photography is allowed; please be mindful of residents.
- Group Visits: Maintain a respectful demeanor and avoid blocking pedestrian traffic.
Nearby Historical Sites and Attractions
- St. Peter und Paul Church: A significant landmark near the Stolperstein.
- Karlsruhe Synagogue Site: The former synagogue at Herrenstraße 14, an important location in the city’s Jewish history.
- Karlsruhe Palace and Gardens: Offers broader historical context and scenic surroundings.
- Jewish Cemetery and Memorial Steles: Explore the network of remembrance sites throughout the city (Karlsruhe City Archive).
Cultural and Educational Context
The Jewish Community in Karlsruhe
Prior to 1933, Karlsruhe had one of Baden-Württemberg’s largest Jewish communities, contributing significantly to the city’s development. The Nazi regime’s rise led to the systematic persecution and destruction of this vibrant community (Denkmalprojekt).
Stolpersteine’s Role in Public Memory
Stolpersteine serve to “bring back the names” of those erased from local memory, placing the stories of individuals like Rosali Wisnewsky back into the public sphere (ka-news.de).
Rituals of Remembrance and Maintenance
Ongoing maintenance and cleaning events by volunteers, schools, and civic groups keep the inscriptions legible and ensure regular engagement with these memorials (bnn.de). Rituals often include readings of biographies and collective reflection (rk-karlsruhe.de).
Controversies and Ongoing Debates
While Stolpersteine are widely supported in Karlsruhe, some German cities—such as Munich—have restricted their installation on public sidewalks, citing concerns over disrespect. In Karlsruhe, the project is broadly embraced and integrated into the city’s commemorative landscape (folklife.si.edu).
Educational Opportunities and Guided Tours
Karlsruhe’s schools integrate Stolperstein research into their curricula. Local organizations and the city archive organize guided walking tours and lectures, especially on 27 January and 9 November (stolpersteine-guide.de). The Stolpersteine Guide app provides digital biographies and suggested routes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where is the Stolperstein for Rosali Wisnewsky located?
A: In Karlsruhe’s Mühlburg district, near Händelstraße and St. Peter und Paul Church. Exact address details are available on the Karlsruhe City Archive map.
Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The Stolperstein is outdoors and accessible 24/7 all year round.
Q: Are tickets required?
A: No, visiting is free with no tickets required.
Q: How do I get there with public transport?
A: Take tram lines 1, 3, 4 or S-Bahn lines S1, S2, S5, S11 to the Herrenstraße stop.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, especially during commemorative dates. Contact local organizations or check the city archive’s calendar.
Q: Is the Stolperstein accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Most are accessible, but some sidewalks may be uneven.
Digital Resources and Visuals
- Karlsruhe City Archive Interactive Map
- Stolpersteine Guide App
- High-quality images with descriptive alt tags such as “Stolperstein for Rosali Wisnewsky in Karlsruhe” are recommended for digital engagement.
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
The Stolperstein for Rosali Wisnewsky stands as a powerful testament to the individual lives lost to Nazi persecution and the city of Karlsruhe’s enduring commitment to remembrance and education. Visitors are encouraged to approach the site with reflection and respect—pause to read the inscription, participate in remembrance rituals, and explore the surrounding historical context. Community involvement, educational initiatives, and digital resources make the Stolpersteine network in Karlsruhe a living, evolving memorial.
To further enrich your visit, download the Audiala app for guided tours, participate in community cleaning events, or support the Stolpersteine project through donations or volunteer work. Your engagement ensures that the memory of Rosali Wisnewsky and others endures for future generations.
References
- Stolpersteine Project
- Karlsruhe City Archive
- Mapcarta - Stolperstein for Rosali Wisnewsky
- Stadtwiki Karlsruhe
- ka-news.de: Erinnerung an Karlsruher Juden
- ka-news.de: Würdigung homosexueller Verfolgter in Karlsruhe
- Holocaust Educational Trust
- Stolpersteine Karlsruhe Jimdo
- Stolpersteine Guide
- Karlsruhe Verkehrsverbund (KVV)
- Denkmalprojekt: Stolpersteine Karlsruhe
- bnn.de: Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe
- rk-karlsruhe.de: Stolpersteine
- Stolpersteine Project Facts & Figures
- Folklife Magazine: Stumbling Stones