While strolling through Amsterdam's quiet residential streets, Carol and I stumbled upon a poignant reminder of lives lost during the Holocaust – three small brass plaques embedded in the brick sidewalk, bearing the names of the Jacobowitz family. The moment caught us off guard, transforming an ordinary walk into a deeply personal encounter with history.
We had been walking for hours, taking in the beauty of the city's grand architecture and savoring the world-class cuisine that Amsterdam has to offer. But as we stopped to read the plaques, our attention was drawn to the stories they told – stories of lives cut short, of families torn apart, and of the devastating impact of the Holocaust on an entire community.
These were no ordinary markers. They are part of a remarkable memorial project that transforms the sidewalks of Europe into places of remembrance. A simple glance downward reveals the names and fates of individuals who once lived on that very street, now remembered in silence underfoot. The plaques are called Stolpersteine, or “stumbling stones,” created by German artist Gunter Demnig to commemorate victims of the Holocaust.
Each Stolperstein is placed in front of the last freely chosen residence of a Jewish person—or other persecuted individuals—before they were arrested or deported by the Nazis. More than 100,000 of these stones now lie scattered across Europe, making it the world’s largest decentralized Holocaust memorial. The goal is quiet but powerful: to return names, faces, and dignity to those who were stolen from history.
Visitors today often encounter Stolpersteine in Amsterdam, Berlin, and dozens of other European cities—always in front of homes, never in museums. To learn more about the project’s history and global reach, we recommend visiting the Stolperstein Wikipedia page. The Jacobowitz Family of Amsterdam holds a special place in our hearts, as their story is one that resonates deeply with our own.
The three plaques we discovered were for members of the Jacobowitz family—Ernst, Julia, and their infant daughter Renée. The inscriptions, in Dutch, tell a heartbreaking story: ERNST JACOBOWITZ Born: 1906 Deported: 1942, from Westerbork Murdered: 16 August 1942, Auschwitz; JULIA JACOBOWITZ–JASLOWITZER Born: 1907 Deported: 1942, from Westerbork Murdered: 17 July 1942, Auschwitz; and RENÉE JACOBOWITZ Born: 8 May 1942 Deported: 1942, from Westerbork Murdered: 17 July 1942, Auschwitz. Julia and Renée were murdered on the same day. Renée was just over two months old. There’s no plaque for a grave. There’s no monument with grandeur. Just these brass tiles, polished by the steps of thousands of passersby, whispering the stories that must never be forgotten.
Our encounter with Stolpersteine in Amsterdam reminded us that some of the most meaningful travel moments aren’t found in museums—they’re found in quiet places where memory lives in the open air. As we continued our journey through Europe, exploring the beauty of its grand cities, savoring world-class cuisine, and cruising through scenic landscapes, we couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such touching moments.
Traveling can be a transformative experience, one that leaves an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. And yet, it's often in the quietest corners that we find the most profound connections with others – whether it's through a shared meal, a conversation with a stranger, or, as in our case, a chance encounter with a poignant memorial like Stolpersteine.
In an age where we're constantly bombarded with information and distractions, it's easy to overlook the small, quiet moments that truly matter. But these are often the moments that leave the deepest impression – moments that remind us of our shared humanity, of our capacity for empathy and compassion, and of the importance of remembering those who have come before us.
As we reflect on our journey through Europe, we're reminded of the power of travel to touch our souls. Whether it's a breathtaking sunset, a stunning work of art, or a poignant memorial like Stolpersteine, these experiences have the ability to leave an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.
Our encounter with Stolpersteine in Amsterdam was a powerful reminder of this truth – a testament to the enduring impact of human connection and memory. As we continued on our journey, we carried with us a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Europe's grand cities, its rich history, and the people who call it home.
For those looking to experience similar moments of connection and reflection, we recommend exploring the many quiet corners of Europe that hold secrets and stories waiting to be uncovered. From the streets of Amsterdam to the countryside of Belgium, each place holds a unique narrative – one that's worth uncovering, through travel, exploration, and a willingness to engage with the world around us.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we hope that this article has inspired you to explore the quiet corners of Europe, where memory lives in the open air. Who knows what stories you'll uncover, and how they'll touch your soul?
Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an independent affiliate of Cadence and a Virtuoso member. CST#201120-40
