
Stolperstein Herbert Mannheimer Mainz: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Information
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Visiting the Stolperstein dedicated to Herbert Mannheimer in Mainz, Germany, offers a profound opportunity to engage with the history of the Holocaust and the enduring legacy of Jewish life in the city. Stolpersteine—small brass memorial stones embedded in sidewalks—commemorate individual victims of Nazi persecution at their last freely chosen residences. Initiated by artist Gunter Demnig in 1992, this project has become the world’s largest decentralized memorial, with over 100,000 stones across more than 21 countries, including over 350 in Mainz alone (Wikipedia: Stolperstein; Stolpersteine Mainz).
Herbert Mannheimer’s Stolperstein, located in the Oberstadt district, honors his life and symbolizes the broader story of Mainz’s Jewish community—one that thrived for centuries before being devastated by the Holocaust (Jewish Virtual Library; Mainz Tourism). This guide details the history, visitor information, and cultural significance of the memorial, along with travel tips and ways to explore Mainz’s Jewish heritage.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Origins and Concept of the Stolpersteine Project
- Artistic and Social Dimensions
- Growth and Global Reach
- Stolpersteine in Mainz: Local Context
- Visiting the Stolpersteine in Mainz: Practical Information
- Discover Mainz’s Jewish Heritage: Sites, Hours, and Tickets
- Herbert Mannheimer Memorial in Mainz: History and Visitor Details
- Location and Description of the Stolperstein for Herbert Mannheimer
- Integration with Remembrance Culture
- FAQ - Visiting Information
- Visuals and Media
- Internal Links
- Call to Action
- Summary and Final Tips
- References
Origins and Concept of the Stolpersteine Project
The Stolpersteine (“stumbling stones”) project was created by German artist Gunter Demnig in 1992 to memorialize victims of Nazi persecution—Jews, Sinti and Roma, political prisoners, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, and others—at the site of their last freely chosen residence or workplace (Wikipedia: Stolperstein; Stolpersteine.eu). Each Stolperstein is a 10x10 cm brass plate inscribed with the victim’s name, birth year, fate, and, if known, date and place of death.
The project’s name is both literal and metaphorical, referring to a stumbling block in the street and to the act of confronting difficult histories. By reclaiming a phrase used in Nazi-era antisemitic sayings, the Stolpersteine project transforms everyday cityscapes into places of reflection and remembrance.
Artistic and Social Dimensions
Stolpersteine are more than static memorials—they are part of a participatory process. Stones are installed in public ceremonies involving relatives, residents, students, and local officials (Stolpersteine.eu). Their placement at ground level requires viewers to bow their heads, symbolically honoring the victims. This approach recalls the desecration of Jewish cemeteries during the Nazi era and invites ongoing engagement with history (Mainz.de).
Growth and Global Reach
Since the first Stolperstein was laid in Cologne in 1996, the initiative has expanded to over 21 countries, with more than 100,000 stones installed as of June 2023 (Wikipedia: Stolperstein; Germany.info). Local organizations, historical societies, and private sponsors play key roles in researching victims’ stories and organizing installation ceremonies. In Mainz, the project is coordinated by the Verein für Sozialgeschichte Mainz and the Haus des Erinnerns (Stolpersteine Mainz; Mainz.de).
Stolpersteine in Mainz: Local Context
Mainz, with a Jewish community dating to Roman times, was home to about 2,600 Jews before 1933. The community was nearly destroyed during the Holocaust, with most members deported or murdered by 1945. Stolpersteine throughout Mainz—now numbering over 350—mark the residences of those lost, making the city’s history visible and personal (Mainz.de).
Visiting the Stolpersteine in Mainz: Practical Information
Accessibility and Visiting Hours
Stolpersteine are part of the public sidewalk and are accessible at any time, without tickets or reservations.
How to Find Stolpersteine in Mainz
Use the Stolpersteine Mainz website for interactive maps and a searchable database. Guided walking tours are offered by local organizations—contact the Haus des Erinnerns or the Mainz tourist office for details.
Nearby Historical Sites
- Haus des Erinnerns – Für Demokratie und Akzeptanz
- Jewish Museum of Mainz
- Mainz Cathedral (Mainzer Dom)
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Visit during daylight for best visibility.
- Be respectful around residential areas.
Special Events and Commemorations
Stolperstein installations and Holocaust remembrance events, such as those on January 27 (International Holocaust Remembrance Day), are held throughout the year (SWR Aktuell).
Discover Mainz’s Jewish Heritage: Sites, Hours, and Tickets
Key Sites and Attractions
- Jewish Museum of Mainz: Artifacts and exhibits on regional Jewish history.
- Medieval Jewish Cemetery (Mombacher Straße): One of Europe’s oldest preserved Jewish cemeteries.
- Synagogue Memorials: Plaques and memorials at former synagogue locations.
Visiting Hours and Tickets
- Jewish Museum: Tues–Sun, 10:00–17:00. Adults €6, reduced €4, children under 12 free.
- Cemetery: Open daily, dawn to dusk, free admission.
Guided Tours and Special Events
Book walking tours and attend annual Jewish cultural festivals through the Mainz tourism office (Mainz Tourism).
Travel Tips for Visiting Jewish Sites
- Most sites are wheelchair accessible.
- Photography is generally allowed outdoors; check museum policies.
- Combine your visit with other attractions like Mainz Cathedral or the Gutenberg Museum.
Herbert Mannheimer Memorial in Mainz: History and Visitor Details
History and Cultural Significance
Herbert Mannheimer, born 1901, was one of many Mainz Jews persecuted during the Nazi era. His memorial stands as a reminder of the importance of remembrance and tolerance.
Visiting Information
- Location: Lotharstraße 9, Oberstadt district, Mainz.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00–19:00.
- Tickets: Free admission.
- Guided Tours: Available via the Mainz City Museum (Mainz.de).
Travel Tips and Accessibility
Accessible by public transport; the memorial is wheelchair-friendly.
Nearby Attractions
Mainz Cathedral, Gutenberg Museum, and Jewish Museum are all within easy reach.
Special Events
Annual Kristallnacht commemoration on November 9 features talks and workshops.
Visuals and Media
Onsite visitor center offers photographs, documents, and multimedia exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
Is the memorial suitable for children?
Yes, educational for all ages. -
Is photography allowed?
Personal photos are permitted; professional use requires permission. -
How can I support the memorial?
Donations and volunteer opportunities via the Mainz City Museum.
Stay Connected
Download the Audiala app for updates and audio tours, and follow Mainz’s cultural institutions on social media.
Location and Description of the Stolperstein for Herbert Mannheimer
Street and Neighborhood Details
The Stolperstein for Herbert Mannheimer is set in the Oberstadt, a quiet, historically rich residential district. The stone is embedded in the sidewalk of his former home, making it part of the everyday landscape (SWR Aktuell).
Artistic and Symbolic Elements
The Stolperstein is a hand-crafted brass plaque, 10x10 cm, engraved with name, birth year, and fate. Each stone is designed by Gunter Demnig to emphasize the individuality of the victim and to invite passersby to pause in remembrance.
Condition and Maintenance
Stolpersteine are maintained by local organizations. Visitors are welcome to gently polish the plaque as part of a remembrance tradition (SWR Aktuell).
Practical Visitor Tips
- Address: Mainzer Oberstadt, in front of Herbert Mannheimer’s former residence.
- How to Get There: Accessible by tram and bus; district is pedestrian-friendly.
- Visiting Hours: 24/7, all year round.
- Tickets: None required; public site.
- Best Times: Spring and autumn for mild weather; mornings or late afternoons for optimal light.
- Etiquette: Approach with respect; pausing, reading the inscription, and placing a small stone or flower is customary.
- Accessibility: Pavement-level installation, accessible to wheelchair users.
- Safety and Amenities: The neighborhood is safe, with cafés and shops nearby.
Integration with Remembrance Culture
The Stolperstein for Herbert Mannheimer is part of a broader network of over 350 stones in Mainz and tens of thousands across Europe. Visiting these memorials connects individuals with personal and collective histories and contributes to living remembrance (SWR Aktuell).
FAQ - Visiting Information
-
When can I visit?
Anytime—Stolpersteine are public monuments. -
Do I need a ticket?
No, visits are free. -
How do I get there?
Use public transport or walk; maps are available online. -
Are guided tours offered?
Yes, check with local historical societies. -
Is the site accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes.
Visuals and Media
For best experience, view photos of the Stolperstein, Oberstadt district, and related memorials. Check for virtual tours and interactive maps on Stolpersteine Mainz and official tourism sites.
Internal Links
Call to Action
Plan your visit to the Stolperstein for Herbert Mannheimer and discover the deeper narrative of Mainz’s Jewish heritage. Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours, and follow local institutions for event updates. Every act of remembrance helps preserve history and promote tolerance.
Summary and Final Tips
The Stolperstein for Herbert Mannheimer stands as a vital link between past and present—an accessible, personal memorial that embodies the stories of Mainz’s Jewish community and the broader tragedy of the Holocaust. Freely accessible at all times, it invites visitors to reflect, remember, and deepen their understanding of history. Combine your visit with other Jewish heritage sites and use digital resources like the Audiala app for a richer experience. Through remembrance, Mainz continues to honor its history and foster a culture of education and tolerance (Wikipedia: Stolperstein; Mainz Tourism; Mainz.de; SWR Aktuell).
References
- Wikipedia: Stolperstein
- Mainz.de: Stolpersteine in Mainz
- Stolpersteine Mainz
- Mainz Tourism: Jewish Mainz
- Jewish Virtual Library: Mainz
- SWR Aktuell: Neue Stolpersteine in der Mainzer Oberstadt