“Einmal wird dieser schreckliche Krieg doch vorbeigehen.” These words of Anne Frank resonate deeply as we stand before the Stele der Erinnerung. This memorial marks the birthplace of Anne Frank in Frankfurt am Main. It stands as a poignant reminder of her life, her words, and the horrors of the Holocaust.
The Stele der Erinnerung is located at Marbachweg 307. Anne Frank was born here on June 12, 1929. She lived in this house with her parents and older sister Margot until March 1931. The family then moved to Ganghoferstraße 24. Later, they emigrated to the Netherlands to escape the increasing persecution of Jews.
Bernd Fischer designed this Stele. It is not just a monument but a multi-layered representation of memory. Fischer believed a memorial should reflect both the past event and the present moment of its creation. He felt it should also reflect the perspectives of those who view it.
The Stele der Erinnerung comprises three safety glass panes. These are held together by a stainless steel frame. The visible part measures 175 x 50 x 4.8 cm. The glass panels create translucent and overlapping images. This gives viewers a sense of depth and complexity. The stele stands directly on the pavement. It has no base elevating it from its surroundings. This design choice places it directly within the space of the street.
Look closely at the black and white image embedded in the glass. It shows Anne with her sister Margot and their friend Grace. This image captures a moment of childhood innocence. It is a stark contrast to the tragic fate that awaited Anne.
The inscription on the stele is a powerful excerpt from Anne Frank’s diary. It reads: “Einmal wird dieser schreckliche Krieg doch vorbeigehen, einmal werden wir doch wieder Menschen und nicht nur Juden sein!” This entry from April 11, 1944. It expresses her unwavering hope for a future free from hatred and discrimination.
The Kulturamt Frankfurt commissioned the Stele der Erinnerung. It was unveiled on June 12, 2009. This marked what would have been Anne Frank’s 80th birthday. The dedication ceremony included speeches by Felix Semmelroth, Buddy Elias, and Bernd Fischer.
The Stele der Erinnerung ensures Anne’s memory lives on in her birthplace. It serves as a constant reminder of the importance of tolerance, understanding, and the fight against prejudice. The Stele invites us to reflect on the past. It challenges us to build a future where such atrocities never happen again. May Anne Frank’s words and her story continue to inspire us all.