Emergence of a new city administration in Schwerin, following Jewish historical precedents
Discovering Hidden Histories: Unveiling Jewish Life in Schwerin
In the heart of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern stands Schwerin, a city steeped in rich history and stunning architecture, most famously displayed in the Schwerin Castle. But there's more to this city than meets the eye, as two city guides—Kerstin Eichhorst and Peter Scherrer—are about to uncover.
Pulling back the veil of time, these guides lead a captivating journey through Schwerin, focusing on Jewish history in the old town. With a history degree under his belt, Peter Scherrer delves into the past to emphasize the seamless blend of cultures and everyday coexistence that once thrived in the city.
Public interest in this Jewish heritage tour has been overwhelming, with the inaugural journey in mid-April already sold-out, attracting a crowd of around 30 curious explorers under the clear blue sky. The tour embarks from the marketplace, meandering its way to the historic butcher's market, the site of the city's first Jewish settlement.
A New Light on the Old Town
As they venture onward, Scherrer elucidates, "Jewish merchants resided in these very streets during the 17th century." The Nazi-era destruction of many synagogues spared Schwerin's building, as the stormtroopers feared a fire in the tightly knit Old Town could engulf neighboring properties.
Delving further into the past, the tour stops at a former pawnshop, which at one time was in Jewish hands. Over a year, Scherrer and his partner have immersed themselves in research to prepare the tour. Eight fixed tour dates are planned until November, with the opportunity for groups to book additional tours according to their needs.
Retiree Kerstin Eichhorst shares her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "I was stunned by the discoveries we made during our research." Due to popular demand, groups may find themselves joining the tour without a pre-booked ticket, a circumstance welcomed by the guides.
Explore the Hidden Layers of Schwerin
This unique guided tour takes you on a journey through the Old Town, from the synagogue at the Butcher's Market to locations where the city's Jewish community resided and worked. The tour also offers stories of compassionate acts by Schwerin locals during Nazi times. Spanning approximately 70 minutes, this tour offers fresh perspectives on a piece of old Schwerin for just 7 euros per person.
As formerly hidden pieces of Schwerin's past emerge, the city beckons visitors with its rich tapestry of history and culture. For those with a thirst for knowledge, Schwerin is the perfect destination to quench their curiosity and explore the lesser-known facets of its storied history.
- The captivating journey through Schwerin, led by Peter Scherrer, not only uncovers Jewish history but also showcases the blend of cultures and lifestyles that once characterized the city, transforming it into an intriguing subject for cultural-travel enthusiasts.
- While tourists may initially associate Schwerin with its grand architecture and travel destinations, this city, burgeoning with hidden layers, also offers unique home-and-garden experiences, with the opportunity to explore the residential streets where Jewish merchants once lived, providing a refreshing twist to a traditional travel itinerary.
