Visiting the Stolperstein Dedicated to Abel Lazar Bernstein in Trondheim, Norway: Complete Guide
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
The Stolperstein dedicated to Abel Lazar Bernstein in Trondheim, Norway, stands as a powerful reminder of the personal histories and enduring legacy of Holocaust victims. As part of a broader European memorial initiative, this small, brass-plated stone embedded in the city’s pavement invites every passerby to reflect on the tragedies of the past and the resilience of Trondheim’s Jewish community. This detailed guide provides everything you need to plan a respectful and meaningful visit, offering historical context, exact location details, practical visitor tips, and suggestions for further exploration.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Origins and Development of the Stolpersteine Project
- Artistic and Social Dimensions
- Stolpersteine in Norway and Trondheim
- The Story of Abel Lazar Bernstein
- Visiting Stolpersteine in Trondheim: Practical Information
- Visiting the Trondheim Synagogue
- Visiting the Stolperstein for Abel Lazar Bernstein: In-Depth Guide
- Recommendations for a Meaningful Visit
- Summary and Final Tips
- References
Origins and Development of the Stolpersteine Project
The Stolpersteine project was established by German artist Gunter Demnig in the early 1990s. The name “Stolpersteine” translates to “stumbling stones” in German and refers to small, brass-plated cobblestones installed in front of the last freely chosen residences of individuals persecuted by the Nazis. Each stone is inscribed with the victim’s name, date of birth, fate, and, where known, date and place of death. This initiative seeks to restore the identities of those who suffered under National Socialism, making their memory a visible and permanent part of everyday life (Stolpersteine.eu).
Today, over 107,000 Stolpersteine are in place across nearly 1,900 municipalities throughout Europe, including Norway, making it the largest decentralized memorial project in the world.
Artistic and Social Dimensions
The Stolpersteine project is both an art installation and a social sculpture. Each stone is handcrafted, and the process of researching, funding, and installing it involves survivors, descendants, local residents, and historical societies. This communal effort transforms remembrance into a living dialogue within urban environments. The street-level placement invites spontaneous interaction, encouraging moments of reflection and empathy during daily routines (Stolpersteine.eu).
Stolpersteine in Norway and Trondheim
During Nazi occupation from 1940 to 1945, Norway’s Jewish population faced systematic persecution. The Stolpersteine project reached Norway in 2010, with more than 600 stones now laid across cities such as Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim (Stolpersteine.eu). In Trondheim, which had a vibrant Jewish community before World War II, Stolpersteine commemorate those who were arrested, deported, and murdered, integrating their memory into the city’s everyday landscape.
The Story of Abel Lazar Bernstein
Abel Lazar Bernstein (1885–1942) was a central figure in Trondheim’s Jewish community. Born to Dora and Levi Bernstein from Kovno (now Kaunas, Lithuania), he settled in Trondheim, married Cecilie Fischer, and had one son. Bernstein became the vice-chairman of Det mosaiske trossamfunn i Trondheim, the city’s Jewish congregation, reflecting his commitment to communal life (fanger.no). During the Nazi occupation, he was arrested by the Gestapo on February 8, 1942, and executed on March 7, 1942, at Kristiansten Fortress alongside other Jewish men (Scandinavian Jewish Forum).
Visiting Stolpersteine in Trondheim: Practical Information
Location and Accessibility
Stolpersteine are placed in front of the victims’ last freely chosen residences. The stone for Abel Lazar Bernstein is located at Erling Skakkes gate 53, Trondheim (Traces of War). The exact GPS coordinates are 63.429361, 10.382862. This central location is easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
Visiting Hours and Admission
- Open Access: Stolpersteine are embedded in public sidewalks and accessible at all times, free of charge.
- Best Time to Visit: Daylight hours are recommended for visibility. Trondheim is walkable year-round, though spring to early autumn offers the best conditions.
Guided Tours and Special Events
Local organizations and historical societies offer guided tours focusing on Trondheim’s Stolpersteine and Jewish history. These tours often coincide with Holocaust Remembrance Day and other commemorative events. Check with local museums and tourist offices for current schedules.
Nearby Attractions
- Kristiansten Fortress: Historic site and execution location.
- Jewish Museum Trondheim: In-depth exhibitions on Jewish life in the region (Jewish Museum Trondheim).
- Trondheim Synagogue: One of Norway’s few surviving synagogues.
- Nidaros Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, and the Old Town Bridge: All within walking distance, offering broader context to Trondheim’s diverse heritage.
Visiting the Trondheim Synagogue
History and Significance
Established in the late 19th century, the Trondheim Synagogue is a rare and significant monument, representing the enduring presence and resilience of Norway’s Jewish community. It played a central role before WWII and continues to serve as a hub for cultural and religious life (Jewish Museum Trondheim).
Visiting Hours and Admission
- Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Admission: 100 NOK (general), 70 NOK (students/seniors), children under 12 free. Group tours by appointment.
Accessibility and Tips
- Centrally located at Kongens Gate 15.
- Wheelchair accessible with ramps and restrooms.
- Guided tours available in Norwegian and English (advance booking recommended).
- Photography permitted except during services.
Events and Educational Programs
The synagogue hosts Holocaust remembrance events, cultural festivals, and educational workshops. Check the official website for updates and event schedules.
Visiting the Stolperstein for Abel Lazar Bernstein: In-Depth Guide
Physical Description
-
Material: Brass-plated concrete cube
-
Dimensions: 10 x 10 cm (approx. 4 x 4 inches)
-
Inscription: In Norwegian, typically reads:
HER BODDE ABEL LAZAR BERNSTEIN FØDT 1885 ARRESTERT 08.02.1942 DREPT 07.03.1942
How to Visit
- Finding the Stone: Use the address Erling Skakkes gate 53 or GPS coordinates for precise location. The stone is flush with the sidewalk.
- Accessibility: Generally accessible to all, but the area may have uneven pavements.
- Visitor Conduct: Treat the site with respect; consider leaving a small stone or flower as a sign of remembrance.
Supporting Resources
- Registry of Stolpersteine in Trondheim and Norway: (lokalhistoriewiki.no)
- Further context on Bernstein’s life: (fanger.no)
Recommendations for a Meaningful Visit
- Pause and Reflect: Read the inscription, consider Bernstein’s story, and reflect on the broader history.
- Learn More: Visit the Jewish Museum or join a guided tour for deeper context.
- Share and Support: Share your visit on social media or support local heritage organizations to help maintain these vital memorials.
Summary and Final Tips
The Stolperstein dedicated to Abel Lazar Bernstein is a deeply moving memorial within Trondheim’s cityscape. It connects visitors to the individual stories of Holocaust victims, the enduring resilience of the Jewish community, and the broader European initiative to keep memory alive (Stolpersteine.eu). The site is free, accessible year-round, and complemented by nearby historical and cultural landmarks.
To enrich your experience:
- Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours.
- Visit the Jewish Museum and Trondheim Synagogue.
- Participate in local commemorative events.
By engaging with this Stolperstein, you join a collective act of remembrance, ensuring that individual stories like Bernstein’s are never forgotten.
