A curved, warped shape shimmers in the air above us. This is Lichtzeichen Spitalssynagoge Light. From a distance, it appears suspended. Getting closer reveals an illuminated sculpture. The shape straightens out as we stand directly underneath it. It reveals itself as a Star of David.
Lichtzeichen Wien consists of 26 such structures. They mark former locations of synagogues. Schools, temples, and prayer rooms are also remembered. Nazis destroyed these places in the pogrom of November 1938. The regime attacked Jewish people in Germany and Austria. The rampage in Vienna lasted several days. Most of the city’s synagogues and prayer halls were destroyed.
The Jewish Museum Vienna and the University of Applied Arts Vienna collaborated. They created this urban memorial project. Artist Lukas Kaufmann designed identical columns. The project is called “Ot”. This Hebrew word means “symbol.” Each light column stands about five meters high. It features a Star of David. The name of the former Jewish structure is inscribed on it. A QR code is also included. It gives access to a virtual reconstruction. The memorial project was unveiled in 2018. This marked the 80th anniversary of the 1938 pogrom.
Lichtzeichen Spitalssynagoge Light is number 13. It stands on the Universität Wien Campus. Specifically, it is located at Hof 6 Spitalgasse 2. This Lichtzeichen commemorates the Spitalssynagoge. It was inaugurated in 1903. It was destroyed in 1938.
The “Ot” project raises awareness. It reminds people of former Jewish places of worship. “Ot” also describes the spiritual relationship between God and people. The memorial project does more than remember. It takes a stand against discrimination.
The November pogroms of 1938 began the persecution of Jewish people. Businesses were plundered. Jews were murdered. Many Jewish citizens were arrested. All of Vienna’s synagogues were destroyed except one. That was the City Temple.
Vienna had Europe’s third-largest Jewish community before 1938. Judaism was an important part of city life. Today, Lichtzeichen Spitalssynagoge Light stands as a reminder. It ensures we never forget. It symbolizes resilience. It stands against discrimination.