Background

Memorial to the Victims of National Socialism

A solemn memorial in Ilmenau honoring the victims of National Socialism, promoting reflection, remembrance, and a commitment to tolerance and understanding.

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The Memorial to the Victims of National Socialism in Ilmenau is a poignant reminder of the suffering endured during the Nazi regime. Located in a serene setting, this memorial provides a space for reflection and remembrance. It honors those who were persecuted and lost their lives due to the ideologies of National Socialism. The site serves as a place for contemplation, encouraging visitors to remember the past and learn from it, promoting tolerance and understanding in the present. The memorial is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a commitment to preventing such atrocities from ever happening again. Visiting this site offers a powerful and educational experience, fostering a deeper understanding of history and its impact on society.

A brief summary to Denkmal für die Opfer des Nationalsozialismus

Local tips

  • Take time for quiet reflection at the memorial to fully appreciate its significance and the stories it represents.
  • Visit during a commemorative event, such as Holocaust Remembrance Day, to participate in a community gathering and learn more about the history of the Nazi era.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other historical sites in Ilmenau to gain a broader understanding of the region's past.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Ilmenau's Marktplatz, walk west along Lindenstraße. Turn left onto Wetzlarer Platz. Continue straight; the memorial will be on your right within the Stadtpark. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus line 300 from Ilmenau train station (Bahndamm) towards Suhl Busbahnhof and get off at the Ilmenau Festhalle stop. From there, cross the pedestrian bridge to Naumannstraße. The memorial is a short walk away within the Stadtpark. A single bus fare is approximately €2-3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Ilmenau train station or the Marktplatz to the memorial will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is €8-€12.

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Discover more about Denkmal für die Opfer des Nationalsozialismus

The Memorial to the Victims of National Socialism in Ilmenau stands as a solemn tribute to those who suffered and perished under the Nazi regime. This memorial, located in a quiet area of Ilmenau, serves as a place of remembrance, reflection, and education. It is dedicated to all victims of National Socialism, including Jewish people, political dissidents, Roma and Sinti, homosexuals, disabled individuals, and others who were persecuted for their beliefs or perceived differences. The memorial's design is simple yet powerful, intended to evoke a sense of contemplation and respect. The central element is a stone sculpture, bearing inscriptions that serve as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during the Nazi era. The surrounding area is landscaped to create a peaceful atmosphere, encouraging visitors to pause and reflect on the human cost of intolerance and hatred. The history of the memorial is rooted in the desire of the Ilmenau community to acknowledge and confront its past. After World War II, there was a growing recognition of the need to remember the victims of National Socialism and to ensure that such events would never be repeated. The memorial was erected as a symbol of this commitment, providing a focal point for remembrance ceremonies and educational activities. Over the years, the memorial has become an important site for local residents and visitors alike. It serves as a gathering place for commemorative events, such as Holocaust Remembrance Day, and is often visited by school groups learning about the history of the Nazi era. The memorial also plays a role in promoting dialogue and understanding between different groups within the community. The impact of the Memorial to the Victims of National Socialism extends beyond its physical presence. It serves as a catalyst for discussions about tolerance, human rights, and the importance of standing up against injustice. By remembering the past, the memorial encourages visitors to consider the present and to work towards a future where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Visiting the memorial is a deeply moving experience. The site's quiet atmosphere and thoughtful design create a space for personal reflection. The inscriptions on the memorial serve as a powerful reminder of the human cost of hatred and intolerance. Visitors often leave feeling a renewed sense of commitment to promoting peace and understanding in their own lives and communities. The memorial is located within easy reach of Ilmenau's town center. From the Marktplatz, head west along Lindenstraße, then turn left onto Wetzlarer Platz. Continue straight, and the memorial will be visible on your right. It is accessible by foot or by public transportation, with several bus stops located nearby. The Memorial to the Victims of National Socialism is more than just a monument; it is a living testament to the importance of remembrance and a call to action for a more just and compassionate world. It is a place where visitors can connect with the past, reflect on the present, and commit to building a better future for all. The monument itself is made of natural stone. It is located in the city park of Ilmenau. The monument is dedicated to the victims from the labor movement during National Socialism. The monument was created by Erich Wurzer. In 2009, another memorial was inaugurated at St. James Church for the victims of the dictatorship from 1945 to 1989 and in memory of the Peaceful Revolution. The stele is made of ship steel and bears an inscription by George Santayana: "Those who do not remember their history are condemned to repeat it." Ilmenau had several prominent Nazis. Fritz Sauckel, the later Gauleiter of Thuringia, studied at the Ilmenau Technikum from 1921-23 before being dismissed for attempted deception. Soon after, he joined the Nazi movement and, with Willy Marschler, built up the NSDAP throughout Thuringia from here.

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