Stolperstein memorial stone dedicated to Sally Reichmann in Karlsruhe, Germany

Stolperstein Dedicated To Sally Reichmann

Visiting the Stolperstein Dedicated to Sally Reichmann in Karlsruhe, Germany: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

A visit to the Stolperstein dedicated to Sally Reichmann in Karlsruhe, Germany, offers a moving encounter with history and remembrance. As part of the world’s largest decentralized memorial—the Stolpersteine project—this small brass plaque set in a city sidewalk brings the memory of Holocaust victims directly into public space, turning everyday streets into sites of reflection and historical engagement. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Stolperstein project, the story of Sally Reichmann, practical visitor information, and the cultural significance of these memorials in Karlsruhe.

1. Origins and Development of the Stolpersteine Project

The Stolpersteine (“stumbling stones”) project was initiated by German artist Gunter Demnig in the early 1990s. Each Stolperstein is a 10-centimeter concrete cube topped with a brass plate, inscribed with the name and fate of a victim of Nazi persecution (Wikipedia). These stones are placed outside the last freely chosen residence or workplace of the commemorated individual, serving as a tangible, decentralized memorial.

Originally, the project began in Cologne to honor Roma and Sinti victims, but it quickly expanded to include Jews, political dissidents, Jehovah’s Witnesses, homosexuals, people with disabilities, and others. By 2025, over 100,000 Stolpersteine have been installed in more than 2,000 European cities, making it a transnational act of remembrance (Wikipedia; Stolpersteine Foundation).

2. Purpose and Symbolism

Stolpersteine serve to personalize the memory of Nazi victims. Unlike centralized memorials, these stones are encountered in daily life, encouraging spontaneous reflection. The term “stumbling stone” carries layered meanings: it references both the literal act of stumbling and the metaphorical challenge of confronting difficult historical truths (Wikipedia). By placing these stones at former residences, the project restores individuality and dignity to the victims, whose identities the Nazis sought to erase.

3. Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe: Local Context and Significance

Historical Context

Since the early 2000s, Karlsruhe has actively participated in the Stolpersteine project, coordinated locally by the Förderverein Karlsruher Stadtgeschichte e.V. (Stolpersteine Karlsruhe). Nearly 300 Stolpersteine have been installed throughout the city, commemorating Jews, political dissidents, and victims of the Nazi “euthanasia” program (ka.stadtwiki.net; Karlsruhe Remembrance Culture Portal).

Inclusion and Community Involvement

Karlsruhe’s approach stands out for its inclusivity, honoring not only Jewish victims but also those targeted for their political beliefs, sexual orientation, or disabilities. Local schools, civic organizations, and descendants participate in research, sponsorship, and ceremonies. Maintenance of the stones is a community effort, with regular cleaning and documentation by volunteers (RK Karlsruhe).

4. The Story of Sally Reichmann

Sally Reichmann was among the many Jewish residents of Karlsruhe who lost their lives during the Holocaust. Her Stolperstein, located near the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), marks her last freely chosen address before deportation (mapcarta.com). While detailed public records about Sally Reichmann are limited, her commemoration through a Stolperstein ensures her story remains part of the city’s living memory. The inscription follows the standard format: “Hier wohnte…” (“Here lived…”), along with her name, birth date, and fate.

5. Cultural and Educational Significance in Karlsruhe

Integration into Public Space

Stolpersteine transform Karlsruhe’s sidewalks into a network of remembrance, integrating history into everyday life. The stones provoke spontaneous reflection and serve as powerful educational tools (pragueviews.com). Their presence makes the consequences of intolerance and hatred tangible and visible to all.

Educational Impact

Local schools, such as the Kant-Gymnasium, undertake research projects to uncover the stories behind Stolpersteine, fostering empathy and historical literacy among students (ka-news.de). City-organized events, cleaning ceremonies, and digital resources such as the Stolpersteine Guide app further support educational engagement (stolpersteine-guide.de).

6. Visiting the Stolpersteine in Karlsruhe: Hours, Tickets, and Practical Tips

Location and Access

Address: The Sally Reichmann Stolperstein is near the KIT main building; use the Karlsruhe Stolpersteine online directory to find the exact location.
Public Transport: The city’s tram and bus network, as well as bicycle and e-scooter options, make the site easily accessible (Karlsruhe Tourism).
Accessibility: Pavements are generally well-maintained, but be mindful of parked cars or foot traffic over the Stolpersteine.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours: Stolpersteine are public memorials and accessible 24/7.
Cost: No tickets or entry fees are required.

What to Expect

Appearance: Each Stolperstein is a 10x10 cm brass plate set flush with the pavement, engraved with the victim’s details.
Atmosphere: The setting is typically quiet and suitable for personal reflection. Visitors often leave small stones or flowers as a mark of respect.
Photography: Permitted, but should be respectful and discreet.

Guided and Self-Guided Tours

Self-Guided: The Stolpersteine Guide app provides walking routes and biographies.
Guided Tours: Local organizations offer guided walks focused on Karlsruhe’s Stolpersteine and Holocaust history. Check with Karlsruhe Tourism for schedules.

Etiquette

Approach quietly and respectfully.
It is customary to place a small stone on the Stolperstein.
Do not stand on the stone if possible.
Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is welcome.

7. Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Historic Sites: Combine your visit with the Karlsruhe Palace, the Badisches Landesmuseum, and the Jewish Museum Karlsruhe.
Amenities: Cafés, benches, and public restrooms are available in the city center.
Best Times to Visit: Visits are possible year-round, but spring and autumn offer favorable weather. Holocaust Remembrance Days (January 27, November 9) include commemorative events.

8. Digital and Interactive Resources

Stolpersteine Guide app: Walking routes, biographies, and maps.
Karlsruhe Remembrance Culture Portal: Interactive maps and background.
Förderverein Karlsruher Stadtgeschichte: Images and project information.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Stolpersteine?
Small brass plaques embedded in sidewalks marking the last freely chosen residence of victims of Nazi persecution.

Where is Sally Reichmann’s Stolperstein?
Near the KIT main building; use the online directory for the address.

Are there tickets or entry fees?
No, Stolpersteine are free and accessible at all times.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, check with Karlsruhe Tourism or use self-guided digital tools.

Can I take photos?
Yes, but please be discreet and respectful of residents.

10. Summary and Final Thoughts

The Stolperstein dedicated to Sally Reichmann is a powerful reminder of the lives disrupted by the Holocaust and a testament to Karlsruhe’s commitment to remembrance. With nearly 300 Stolpersteine, the city’s sidewalks map a history of loss, resilience, and community responsibility (ka.stadtwiki.net). Digital tools, guided tours, and educational events make these memorials accessible and meaningful for locals and visitors alike. By visiting and reflecting at these sites, you help keep alive the memory of Sally Reichmann and countless others.

Call to Action

Download the Stolpersteine Guide app for a self-guided tour, follow local cultural organizations for updates, and explore related articles on Karlsruhe’s history. Your participation in remembrance—through visits, learning, or volunteering—ensures these stories endure for future generations.