The Stolpersteine Project: History and Significance
The Stolpersteine project is the world’s largest decentralized memorial, with over 100,000 stones laid across Europe by 2025 (Stolpersteine.eu). Each stone commemorates an individual victim of Nazi persecution—Jews, Roma, Sinti, political prisoners, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others—by marking their last self-chosen residence or workplace. The project began in 1992, and its grassroots approach has transformed urban landscapes into sites of memory, bringing history into daily life.
In Wiesbaden, the project began in 2008, supported by the Aktives Museum Spiegelgasse and the city parliament (Jewiki: Wiesbaden Stolpersteine). Stones are installed in ceremonies involving local communities and descendants, reinforcing the personal and communal dimensions of remembrance.
The Story of Felix Berney
Early Life and Family
Felix Berney, born in 1883, lived with his wife, Rosalie (b. 1878), at Mauergasse 12 in Wiesbaden’s old town. They were members of the city’s Jewish middle class before the Holocaust (Traces of War: Mauergasse 12; Stolpersteinliste Wiesbaden, PDF).
Persecution and Deportation
Under the Nazi regime, the Berneys were subjected to escalating persecution, culminating in their deportation to the Sobibor extermination camp in 1942. Their Stolpersteine serve as enduring reminders of their lives and the broader community lost to the Holocaust.
Visiting the Felix Berney Stolperstein
Location and Accessibility
- Address Mauergasse 12 / Dernsche Höfe, 65183 Wiesbaden, Germany (Mapcarta: Dernsche Höfe)
- Located in the city center, the site is easily accessible by foot, public transport, or car.
- Nearby parking garages: “Parkhaus Markt” and “Parkhaus Luisenplatz.”
- The area is pedestrian-friendly, but some sidewalks may be uneven due to cobblestones.
Visiting Hours and Tickets
- Hours Open 24/7; the Stolperstein is embedded in a public sidewalk, accessible year-round.
- Tickets No ticket or permit required; the site is free of charge.
Guided Tours and Special Events
- Guided Tours Offered by the Aktives Museum Spiegelgasse and local tour operators, these provide historical context and personal stories. Some tours may be available in English—check AMS for details.
- Special Events Remembrance ceremonies, particularly on Holocaust Memorial Day (January 27), often include cleaning rituals and readings of victims’ names.
Nearby Historical and Cultural Sites
- Wiesbaden City Palace (Stadtschloss) Neoclassical seat of the Hessian State Parliament (Wiesbaden City Palace).
- Altes Rathaus Oldest preserved building in Wiesbaden’s city center (Altes Rathaus Wiesbaden).
- St. Bonifatius Church Neo-Gothic landmark on Luisenplatz.
- Aktives Museum Spiegelgasse Exhibitions on Jewish life and Holocaust remembrance (AMS).
- Gedenkstätte Michelsberg Holocaust memorial site.
- Kurhaus Wiesbaden Historic spa house and gardens.
- Neroberg and Nerobergbahn Panoramic city views and attractions.
- Taunusstraße Famous for antiques, galleries, and cafes.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit Daylight hours (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM) for optimal visibility.
- Accessibility Step-free access; most sites are wheelchair-friendly, though cobblestones may present minor challenges.
- Respectful Behavior Pause to read the inscription, leave a small stone or flower, and avoid standing directly on the plaque.
- Photography Permitted, but please be discreet and respectful.
- Weather Considerations The site is outdoors—dress appropriately.
Rituals and Acts of Remembrance
- Cleaning the Stones Polishing the brass is a symbolic act of care done by locals and visitors, especially on memorial dates.
- Placing Stones or Flowers Reflects Jewish mourning customs and honors the memory of the victims.
- Reading Names Aloud Performed during ceremonies to restore dignity and individuality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are there entry fees to visit the Felix Berney Stolperstein?
A: No, the Stolperstein is publicly accessible without charge.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Daytime hours are recommended for visibility and safety.
Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Some AMS tours are offered in English; check their website or contact them directly.
Q: Is the Stolperstein accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, but some areas may have uneven surfaces—contact AMS for details.
Q: How can I support the Stolpersteine project?
A: Sponsor new stones or volunteer through the AMS website.
