Mohamed Soliman Plaque

In the bustling heart of Berlin, a plaque on Oranienburger Straße whispers a tale of dreams and celluloid. The Mohamed Soliman Plaque commemorates a remarkable individual. Mohamed Soliman, an Egyptian artist, made Berlin his home in 1900. This plaque, unveiled on June 26, 2019, marks his former residence. Soliman’s story is an integral part of Berlin’s vibrant cultural history. He wasn’t just an artist; he was a pioneer of early cinema. In 1906, Soliman opened one of Berlin’s first silent movie theaters in Rummelsburg. Imagine the flickering images, the hushed anticipation of the audience as they witnessed the birth of a new art form. Before the First World War, Soliman’s influence extended to the entertainment world of Berlin-Halensee. He managed the oriental section of the Lunapark, bringing a touch of the exotic to the city’s amusement scene. Soliman’s entrepreneurial spirit continued to flourish. In 1915, he acquired the Linden-Cabaret and Passage-Theater at the Kaisergalerie in Friedrichstraße. He transformed these venues into a cinema-variety show, a testament to his vision and business acumen. He presided over this entertainment hub until 1923. Mohamed Soliman’s story is not just about his professional life; it’s also a story of family and belonging. He married Martha Westphal, a Berliner, in 1904. They had three daughters: Myriam, Hamida, and Adila. This Egyptian artist, who brought the magic of cinema to Berlin, built a life and a family in this city. He became an integral part of its fabric. Soliman’s journey ended in 1929. He was laid to rest in the Islamic cemetery in Neukölln. The Mohamed Soliman Plaque stands as a tribute to his legacy. It’s a reminder of the diverse individuals who have shaped Berlin’s history. It also serves as a symbol of the power of dreams and the enduring impact of art and culture.