Selma Feiner, geb. Cohen

DE

Selma Feiner, geb. Cohen
Selma Feiner, geb. Cohen
Location
DE
Category
heritage historic sites
Coordinates
51.4905495, 7.3062603
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

Selma Feiner, born Cohen, is commemorated through a Stolperstein—a 'stumbling stone'—located in Germany as part of a widespread memorial project dedicated to victims of National Socialism. These brass-plated cobblestones are embedded in the pavement in front of the last self-chosen residence of individuals who were persecuted, deported, or murdered during the Nazi regime. Visitors seeking to pay their respects to the history of the Holocaust often include these sites in their itineraries when exploring urban spaces. As you walk through the streets, these markers serve as a poignant reminder of the lives once lived in the neighborhood. They are essential stops for those interested in local history and the human stories behind the statistics of the 20th century. While these sites are not traditional tourist attractions, they represent significant places to visit for those engaging in historical reflection and remembrance. When planning your trip ideas in the region, including these memorials provides a deeper understanding of the local heritage and the resilience of the human spirit. The site of Selma Feiner's memorial is accessible to the public at any time, though early morning or early afternoon visits are recommended for a quieter, more contemplative experience. We advise checking the local weather forecast before heading out to ensure a comfortable visit as you navigate the city's historical landscape.

General information

Selma Feiner, born Cohen, is commemorated through a Stolperstein—a 'stumbling stone'—located in Germany as part of a widespread memorial project dedicated to victims of National Socialism. These brass-plated cobblestones are embedded in the pavement in front of the last self-chosen residence of individuals who were persecuted, deported, or murdered during the Nazi regime. Visitors seeking to pay their respects to the history of the Holocaust often include these sites in their itineraries when exploring urban spaces. As you walk through the streets, these markers serve as a poignant reminder of the lives once lived in the neighborhood. They are essential stops for those interested in local history and the human stories behind the statistics of the 20th century. While these sites are not traditional tourist attractions, they represent significant places to visit for those engaging in historical reflection and remembrance. When planning your trip ideas in the region, including these memorials provides a deeper understanding of the local heritage and the resilience of the human spirit. The site of Selma Feiner's memorial is accessible to the public at any time, though early morning or early afternoon visits are recommended for a quieter, more contemplative experience. We advise checking the local weather forecast before heading out to ensure a comfortable visit as you navigate the city's historical landscape.

Did you know

  • The Stolperstein project, initiated by artist Gunter Demnig, is the world's largest decentralized memorial.
  • Each stone is hand-crafted and bears the name, birth date, and fate of the victim.
  • The term 'Stolperstein' is meant to be understood metaphorically—stumbling not with your feet, but with your head and heart.

History

Selma Feiner (née Cohen) was a victim of the Holocaust. The memorial stone commemorates her life and her forced removal from her home during the period of National Socialist rule in Germany. These stones are placed to restore the memory of individuals who were systematically erased by the regime. Historical documentation regarding her specific life path is maintained by local municipal archives, which provide context on the deportation of residents during the 1930s and 1940s. Her memorial is part of the broader effort to document the history of the Jewish population in Germany.

Cultural significance

The Stolperstein for Selma Feiner serves as a vital element of German 'Erinnerungskultur,' or culture of remembrance. By placing these markers in the public sphere, the project forces passersby to confront the reality of the Holocaust in their own daily environment. It shifts the focus from abstract historical figures to individual neighbors who were part of the community fabric. This practice encourages active engagement with history, ensuring that the legacy of those who were persecuted is preserved and acknowledged within the contemporary urban landscape.

Geography and landscape

The memorial is situated in an urban setting, embedded directly into the sidewalk in front of a residential or former residential building. These sites are integrated into the existing city grid, requiring no special infrastructure. The environment is typical of a German streetscape, characterized by paved sidewalks and surrounding architecture that may date back to the early 20th century or later reconstruction. Access is unrestricted as the memorial is located on a public thoroughfare, allowing for quiet observation amidst the daily activity of the city.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch

Nearby attractions