Berend Lehmann Museum of Jewish History and Culture

The Beren Lehmann Museum opened in 2001 and is one of the few museums dedicated to Jewish themes in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR). Housed within the historic buildings of Halberstadt’s former Jewish community, the museum exclusively displays objects originating from the Jewish context of Halberstadt.

Thanks to donations and loans from the descendants of Halberstadt’s Jewish residents, an authentic collection of Judaica, everyday objects, photographs, documents, as well as video and audio recordings of outstanding quality has been assembled. The collection’s primary focus is historical. However, through events and special exhibitions, the Berend Lehmann Museum presents diverse historical and contemporary perspectives, showcasing the full spectrum of German Jewry and beyond.

The Holocaust brought an end to 700 years of Jewish history in Halberstadt in 1938. A document issued by Bishop Volradus of Kranichfeld in 1261 confirms the settlement of Jews there from at least that time onwards. Halberstadt became a center of Jewish economic, social, and religious life, gaining worldwide renown—particularly following the establishment of the rabbinical seminary in 1700. In the 18th century, Jews made up 10 percent of Halberstadt’s population. During the GDR era following the Holocaust, only a wooden sign served as a reminder of the former existence of the large Jewish community. Today, the Berend Lehmann Museum commemorates the contributions of Jewish people to the region and to Germany as a whole through exhibitions and extensive educational programs for children and adults.