“Where is your brother?” echoes from this stone. This is the Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele. It commemorates a dark chapter in Leipzig’s history.
The Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele stands as a memorial to Jewish citizens. It marks the spot where they were gathered before deportation. This happened after Kristallnacht in 1938. The victims were herded together near the Parthe flood ditch. This was next to the bridge of Pfaffendorfer Strasse. It was opposite the entrance to the Zoological Garden.
Pause for a moment. Feel the weight of history here at the Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele. Imagine the scene. Innocent people were forcibly assembled. They faced an uncertain future.
The Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele is not just a stone. It is a symbol of remembrance. It is a reminder of injustice. The Ecumenical Working Group of Leipzig Churches initiated this memorial. It was erected in November 1988. This marked the 50th anniversary of those terrible events. Dresden sculptor Peter Makolies designed it.
The stele is 1.30 meters tall. It has a rectangular cross section. It sits on a polished square granite slab. The stele is made of black Lobenstein diabase. Diabase means transition in Greek. This gives the stone a symbolic character.
Look closely at the front of the Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele. A Star of David is sculpted there. On the eastern side, there is an inscription in German. It translates to: “Here in this trench, Jewish citizens were driven together before their deportation in 1938.”
Reflect on these words. Consider the fear and despair of those people. The opposite side of the Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele bears another inscription. Arranged vertically, it asks: “Where is your brother?” This question is a powerful reminder. It speaks to our responsibility to each other.
This Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele stands under cultural heritage protection. It serves as a constant reminder. Leipzig, like many German cities, suffered greatly during World War II. Despite the damage, the city has worked to preserve its history.
The Hermann-Tauer-Gedenkstein Stele is a place for reflection. It urges us to remember the past. It encourages us to build a better future. The Leipzig Human Rights Award is held each year. It recognizes those who protect human rights.