The Jewish Mendelssohn family, known for their contributions to Germany’s intellectual, economic, and cultural landscape, saw their prominence fade with the rise of Nazi power in 1933. Today, their fascinating history is immortalized in a building in Berlin that once belonged to them.
Nestled away on a small street near Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt Square, the Mendelssohn-Remise served various purposes over the years, from a bank to a carriage house. Today, it stands as a museum and concert venue, hosting a range of events including concerts, readings, discussions, and guided tours.
However, the future of the Mendelssohn-Remise hangs in the balance. The building’s current owner, a hedge fund company, has substantially increased the rent and is demanding a contract that allows for termination at short notice. Thomas Lackmann, the director of the museum, expressed his concerns, stating that these conditions will make it impossible to sustain the museum’s operations.
For the past two decades, the Mendelssohn Society has relied on private donations and the support of individuals to finance the museum and preserve this important part of Jewish history in Germany. Despite the challenges they face, they continue their mission to educate visitors and keep the Mendelssohn family’s legacy alive.
The Mendelssohn-Remise stands as a unique testament to a family that left an indelible mark on Germany’s past. Its fate may be uncertain, but the importance of remembering and honoring such crucial elements of history remains unwavering.