As you wander through the charming streets of Chotěboř, it is easy to be captivated by the scenic beauty of the Vysočina region. However, a quiet, poignant memorial embedded in the pavement serves as a powerful reminder of the town’s complex history. The Stolpersteine Chotěboř project invites visitors to pause, reflect, and honor the memories of those whose lives were irrevocably altered during the dark years of the Second World War.
Understanding the Stolpersteine Project
The Stolpersteine, often referred to as “stumbling stones,” are a global art project conceived by the German artist Gunter Demnig. These brass-topped cobblestones are meticulously laid into the pavement directly in front of the last known freely chosen residences of victims of the Nazi regime.
Each stone is engraved with the name and life dates of an individual, serving as a personal, tactile monument rather than a distant, towering statue. By placing them at our feet, the project forces us to look down and acknowledge the history beneath our steps, ensuring that the victims are never truly forgotten.
The Bergmann Family Memorial
In Chotěboř, seven of these unique stones are located on Na Valech street, directly in front of the building at descriptive number 290. This site marks the former home of the Bergmann family, whose members were among the many Jewish residents persecuted during the Holocaust.
Today, the building functions as a school, creating a striking contrast between the vibrant energy of modern students and the solemn history of the families who once lived there. Visiting this site allows you to connect with the personal story of the Bergmanns and pay your respects to their legacy.
Visiting the Memorial
The memorial is located in an accessible public space, making it easy to include in your walking tour of the town. As of June 22, 2026, there is no admission fee to visit the site, and it remains open to the public at all hours of the day.
Praktische Information
- Standort: Na Valech 290, 583 01 Chotěboř
- GPS Koordinaten: 49.718702, 15.671831
- Zulassung: Frei
- Recommended Duration: 1.5 hours (including surrounding area exploration)
- Official Website: www.chotebor.cz
Exploring Chotěboř and Surroundings
While the Stolpersteine Chotěboř is a somber stop, it is an essential part of understanding the local heritage. We recommend pairing your visit with a broader exploration of the Havlíčkobrodsko district, which offers beautiful landscapes and historical architecture.
Take the time to walk through the town center after your visit. Reflecting on the resilience of the community and the importance of remembrance adds a deeper layer of meaning to any trip through the Highlands region.
History is not just found in textbooks; it is woven into the very streets we walk upon. By visiting the Stolpersteine in Chotěboř, you contribute to the vital act of collective memory, ensuring that the names of the Bergmann family and their neighbors remain etched in our consciousness.
We encourage you to make this meaningful stop a part of your next visit to the Vysočina region. Take a moment to stand, remember, and share the story of the Stolpersteine with fellow travelers.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
What are the Stolpersteine in Chotěboř?
They are seven commemorative brass-covered stones dedicated to the Jewish inhabitants of Chotěboř who were killed or forced to flee during the Nazi era.
Where are the Stolpersteine located in Chotěboř?
The stones are located on Na Valech street, directly in front of the house at number 290.
Who created the Stolpersteine project?
The project was created by the German artist Gunter Demnig.
Is there an admission fee to visit the site?
No, visiting the Stolpersteine memorial is free of charge.
How much time should I allocate for a visit?
A visit to the memorial and the surrounding area typically takes about 1.5 hours.
