Have you noticed the way the light seems to dance around this column? We are standing before Lichtzeichen Schmalzhoftempel Light. It is a poignant testament to Vienna’s history. This light marks the former location of the Schmalzhoftempel. The Schmalzhoftempel was a synagogue destroyed during the Nazi pogrom in November 1938.
Lichtzeichen Wien is a project of remembrance. It includes 26 light columns throughout Vienna. These columns mark sites of former synagogues, schools, temples, and prayer rooms. All were destroyed by the Nazis. The coordinated attack occurred on the night of November 9-10, 1938. The destruction continued for days.
The Jewish Museum Vienna and the University of Applied Arts Vienna collaborated on this urban memorial. Artist Lukas Kaufmann designed the identical columns. The project is called “Ot”. “Ot” means “symbol” in Hebrew. It represents the spiritual connection between God and the Jewish people.
Each Lichtzeichen column stands about 5 meters tall. The design includes a Star of David. When you approach it, the curved lines align. They reveal the Star of David. Each column bears the name of the former Jewish structure. A QR code provides access to a virtual reconstruction.
Lichtzeichen Schmalzhoftempel is number 9 in the series. It stands at Schmalzhofgasse 3. The original Schmalzhoftempel was inaugurated in 1884. It stood as a place of worship until its destruction in 1938. You can reach this location by taking the U-Bahn U3 to Zieglergasse station.
The unveiling of the Lichtzeichen memorial project took place in 2018. It coincided with the 80th anniversary of the 1938 pogrom. Prior to 1938, Vienna had one of the largest Jewish communities in Europe. Judaism was an integral part of the city’s life.
The November pogroms marked the start of the persecution of Jewish people. Businesses were plundered. Jewish citizens were arrested. Almost all synagogues and prayer houses were destroyed, with only one exception.
This Lichtzeichen memorial serves multiple purposes. It raises awareness. It remembers the victims. It stands against discrimination. It reminds us of Vienna’s diverse past.
Consider the significance of this place. It is more than just a memorial. It is a symbol of resilience. It is a beacon of hope. It is a reminder of the importance of tolerance. Let us carry this message forward.