Resting the stone stairs in the Mauthausen concentration camp: an important sign!

Resting the stone stairs in the Mauthausen concentration camp: an important sign!

Mauthausen, Österreich - The Mauthausen memorial has taken a significant step in its restoration: the so -called stone booth has recently been accessible to visitors. This staircase had been blocked for security reasons seven years ago, which was strongly criticized by various national and international victim associations, including the Comité International de Mauthausen and the Mauthausen Committee Austria. The stairs play an important role in the mediation work in the memorial because it is a central element of memory work.

During the dark times of World War II, reports confirmed that prisoners in the Mauthausen concentration camp had to drag granite blocks over the 186 steps, which often had fatal consequences. This led to the colloquial name "Steinstieg". The reopening was made possible by the amendment of the Monument Protection Act, which on the one hand revised the safety requirements for such buildings and on the other hand strengthens the self -responsibility of the visitors. A maximum of 300 people can stay in the fenced area at the same time, and security signs in German and English can provide information about the applicable regulations.

an important place of commemoration

Mauthausen is one of the central memorials for the victims of National Socialism. This memorial opens up a deep insight into the horrors of the past and is reminiscent of the countless victims who have suffered here. The former concentration camp is not only a place of memory, but also a place of learning in order to counteract such inhumane suffering in the future. The stone stairs is of particular importance, both for contemporary witnesses and for future generations.

In addition, Mauthausen is part of a variety of memorial sites that are scattered all over Austria. Examples are the memorial for Roma and Sinti in Lackenbach or the memorial for the victims of the Nazi judiciary in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee. These sites are essential to keep the memory of the victims awake and to preserve the teachings from the past.

Overall, the recovery of the stone stairs in Mauthausen not only reflects progress in monument conservation, but also the commitment of society to deal with history and to honor the memory of the victims of National Socialism. The Mauthausen memorial remains a place of reminder and learning for everyone who understands history and want to promote the values of humanity and respect.