Stolperstein memorial dedicated to Josef Mejer Gurewitz in Trondheim, Norway

Stolperstein Dedicated To Josef Mejer Gurewitz

Stolperstein Josef Mejer Gurewitz: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Trondheim Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Stolperstein dedicated to Josef Mejer Gurewitz in Trondheim, Norway, stands as a powerful memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and the city’s once-thriving Jewish community. Stolpersteine—“stumbling stones”—are small brass plaques set into sidewalks to mark the last freely chosen residences of those persecuted by the Nazis. Conceived by German artist Gunter Demnig in 1992, the Stolpersteine project is now the world’s largest decentralized Holocaust memorial, with over 107,000 stones embedded across 28 countries as of 2025 (stichting-stolpersteine.nl). These stones serve as daily reminders, inviting reflection on the atrocities of the Nazi regime and honoring the lives of individual victims.

Trondheim, a city deeply marked by the events of World War II, is home to several Stolpersteine, including that of Josef Mejer Gurewitz. Visiting these memorials provides a unique, intimate connection to history, making it an essential experience for those interested in Holocaust remembrance, Jewish heritage, or the broader scope of European history.

This guide offers a comprehensive overview, including the history and philosophy behind Stolpersteine, practical visiting information, accessibility, nearby attractions, and resources for deepening your understanding of this vital chapter in Trondheim’s story.

Introduction
Origins and Development of the Stolpersteine Project
Purpose and Philosophy
Installation Process
Stolpersteine in Norway and Trondheim
Visiting Stolpersteine: Practical Information
Commemoration and Controversy
Contemporary Memory Culture
About the Josef Mejer Gurewitz Memorial
Historical Context of Stolpersteine in Trondheim
Jewish Community and the Holocaust in Trondheim
Locations and Mapping
Integrating with Trondheim’s Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
References

Origins and Development of the Stolpersteine Project

The Stolpersteine project began in 1992, envisioned by artist Gunter Demnig as a decentralized memorial to the victims of National Socialism. Each Stolperstein is a 10x10 cm brass plaque, inscribed with the name, birth year, fate, and, if known, place and date of death of a victim. These stones are embedded in the pavement outside the individual’s last freely chosen residence (stichting-stolpersteine.nl).

The project commemorates Jews, Roma, Sinti, LGBTQ+ individuals, political dissidents, and others persecuted by the Nazi regime (germany.info). As of 2025, Stolpersteine have been installed in over 1,800 locations worldwide, making the project a truly global act of remembrance (stljewishlight.org).

Purpose and Philosophy

The Stolpersteine initiative personalizes the tragedy of the Holocaust by restoring names and stories to individual victims. By placing the stones in everyday public spaces, the project integrates remembrance into daily life, inviting passersby to pause, bow, and reflect (germany.info). The act of bending down to read the inscription is a symbolic gesture of respect; local communities often hold ceremonies and clean the stones to maintain their visibility and significance (stljewishlight.org).

The Installation Process

Stolpersteine can be requested by descendants, historians, local organizations, or residents. The process involves historical research, gaining permission from property owners and authorities, and installation—typically by Demnig or his authorized team. Installations are often marked by public ceremonies and community participation (stichting-stolpersteine.nl).

The project is intentionally inclusive, honoring all victims, including those who died in hiding or by suicide (stichting-stolpersteine.nl).

Stolpersteine in Norway and Trondheim

Norway has embraced the Stolpersteine project, with installations in major cities such as Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. As of April 2020, there were over 600 Stolpersteine in Norway (Wikipedia). Trondheim, home to a historically significant Jewish community, has several Stolpersteine, including the one for Josef Mejer Gurewitz, serving as enduring reminders of the city’s wartime history (germany.info).

Visiting Stolpersteine in Trondheim: Practical Information

Hours and Accessibility

Stolpersteine are embedded in public sidewalks and are accessible at any time, free of charge. No tickets or reservations are required.

Most are located in the city center, on flat, well-maintained pavements, making them generally accessible to wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges. However, visitors should be aware of occasional uneven surfaces.

Travel Tips

Getting There: Trondheim is easily navigable on foot, and most Stolpersteine are within walking distance of major attractions.
When to Visit: Daylight hours are best for visibility and photography. Spring through early autumn offers pleasant weather.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes and a camera for respectful documentation.
Etiquette: Pause to read the inscriptions and consider leaving a small stone as a sign of remembrance.

Nearby Historical Sites

Enhance your visit by exploring related sites:

Nidaros Cathedral
Trondheim Jewish Museum (jodiskmuseum.org)
Archbishop’s Palace Museum
Bakklandet historic district

Commemoration and Controversy

While Stolpersteine have been widely praised, some have raised concerns regarding the act of stepping on the memorials. In cities like Munich, alternative memorials have been preferred (lbi.org). Nonetheless, most supporters view the stones’ integration into daily life as a crucial element of remembrance; the act of bending down to read the plaque is seen as a gesture of respect, and frequent contact keeps the brass polished (stljewishlight.org).

The Stolpersteine Project in Contemporary Memory Culture

Stolpersteine exemplify the shift toward decentralized, personal memorials that challenge the anonymity of historical tragedy. In Trondheim, each stone is a call to reflection and a reminder of the ongoing need to combat hatred and intolerance (germany.info).

About the Josef Mejer Gurewitz Memorial

Site Details

The Josef Mejer Gurewitz Memorial is centrally located in Trondheim and commemorates both Josef and the broader Jewish community targeted during the Nazi occupation. The memorial is accessible year-round, daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and admission is free.

Getting There & Accessibility

The site is easily reachable via public transport, with nearby parking for drivers. The memorial features wheelchair-accessible pathways and clear signage for inclusive access.

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Local historical societies and the Jewish Museum offer guided tours that feature the memorial and other Stolpersteine, providing rich historical context and personal narratives. These tours can be booked in advance and are highly recommended for a deeper understanding.

Historical Context: Trondheim, Its Jewish Community, and the Holocaust

Trondheim, Norway’s third-largest city, was home to a vibrant but small Jewish community before World War II. During the Nazi occupation, Jewish residents faced arrest, deportation, and, for many, murder in concentration camps. Of the 773 Jews deported from Norway, only 38 survived (Wikipedia). Josef Mejer Gurewitz was among those lost. The Stolperstein in his honor stands as a testament to his life and to the community’s resilience.

Locations and Mapping

Stolpersteine are typically placed outside the last freely chosen residence or workplace of the individual. In Trondheim, these are primarily located in the city center and historic Jewish neighborhoods. While there is no official city map solely for Stolpersteine, databases such as the German Stolpersteine database and the official project website provide searchable lists and maps for planning your visit.

Integrating with Trondheim’s Historical Attractions

Combine your Stolpersteine exploration with visits to major sites like the Nidaros Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, and Bakklandet district (TouristPlaces.Guide). Craft a walking route that includes both memorials and museums to gain a comprehensive view of Trondheim’s diverse history and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need tickets to visit the Stolpersteine or the Josef Mejer Gurewitz Memorial?
No, both are public spaces accessible free of charge.

Are the memorials and Stolpersteine accessible to people with disabilities?
Most are located on flat pavement and are wheelchair accessible, though visitors should be mindful of occasional uneven spots.

Can I take photographs?
Yes. Photography is allowed and encouraged if done respectfully without obstructing others.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, local historical societies and museums offer tours. Check their websites or contact the Trondheim Tourist Office for details.

How can I stay updated on Stolpersteine events in Trondheim?
Follow the Jewish Museum in Trondheim, local heritage organizations, or download audio guide apps like Audiala.

References

Final Tips and Call to Action

Plan your visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
Wear comfortable shoes and allow time to pause at each Stolperstein.
Consider joining a guided tour to enrich your understanding.
Respect the memorials: read the inscriptions, take photos quietly, and, if you wish, leave a small stone as a sign of remembrance.
Download the Audiala app for audio guides and up-to-date historical content.
Share your experience and help sustain the memory of Trondheim’s Jewish community and the victims of the Holocaust.

By engaging thoughtfully with these memorials, you contribute to a living tradition of remembrance and education, ensuring these stories are never forgotten.