“A hospital for Jews who’re sick and needy.” That’s how Heinrich Heine described the Israelitisches Krankenhaus Hamburg. It’s a place with a story that stretches back to 1843. The Israelitisches Krankenhaus stands as a testament to compassion and community in Hamburg.
The story begins with Salomon Heine, a Jewish banker. He wanted to address Hamburg’s dire hospital situation. So Heine decided to fund a new hospital. He dedicated it to his late wife, Betty. The city council donated land in St. Pauli. Heine’s donation covered all building costs. He had two requests. The hospital should bear Betty’s name. Also, a special lectern should be for him in the synagogue.
The Israelitisches Krankenhaus quickly became known for treating everyone. It did not matter what their religion was. It was one of the first Jewish hospitals in Germany. From its start, the Israelitisches Krankenhaus welcomed all Hamburg residents. It did not matter their religious affiliation.
The hospital faced challenges during the Nazi era. In 1939, the Nazis seized the building. The Israelitisches Krankenhaus had to move. It first went to a former private clinic. Later it moved to a nursing home. The hospital lost its independence.
After the war, in 1946, a temporary board was appointed. It would manage the hospital. In 1952, the foundation was revived. The old buildings were unsuitable. The community needed a new location.
The city of Hamburg provided land in Alsterdorf. Construction began, and in 1960, the new Israelitisches Krankenhaus opened. Max Brauer, the mayor at the time, said something memorable at the opening. He recalled a saying from his childhood. “If things get really bad, go to the Jewish Hospital.”
Today, the Israelitisches Krankenhaus continues its mission. It welcomes all patients. It does not matter their religion or background. It is known for treating digestive diseases. The hospital is a teaching hospital for the University of Hamburg. It contributes to medical research.
The Israelitisches Krankenhaus is more than just a hospital. It embodies Hamburg’s spirit of inclusivity. It exemplifies high-quality medical care. It stands as a living tribute to Salomon and Betty Heine. It reminds us that compassion can build lasting institutions.