The former synagogue in Kobersdorf is one of the few completely preserved buildings of the historic "Seven Communities" in Burgenland and, following extensive restoration, has established itself as a lively place of learning and remembrance. Built in the 19th century, the Jewish house of prayer now opens its doors to school classes from across the region, teaching history, culture, and religion directly at the authentic location.
The educational programs focus on Jewish life, anti-Semitism, National Socialism, and the Holocaust. Students not only visit the synagogue itself, but also explore the former Jewish quarter and, depending on the program, the Jewish cemetery in Kobersdorf. The practical learning modules tie in with curricula in history, religion, ethics, and political education, and enable young people to experience democracy education, empathy, and moral courage.
Governor Hans Peter Doskozil emphasizes the importance of the project: "The former Kobersdorf synagogue is a unique place of learning and remembrance where the Jewish history of our region can be directly experienced. Remembrance culture should not be a marginal topic, but an integral part of school education in Burgenland."
The educational programs focus on Jewish life, anti-Semitism, National Socialism, and the Holocaust. © KBB Burgenland
In the program "Spurensuche in Kobersdorf" (Searching for Traces in Kobersdorf), classes work with specially developed teaching materials, conduct on-site research into the history of the town, and explore topics such as anti-Semitism and social responsibility. Teachers can use the materials flexibly, supplemented by digital offerings via the LMS.at learning platform. In addition, experienced partners such as the Granatapfel Kulturvermittlung association and the "Likrat" dialogue project with Jewish youth offer workshops lasting several hours that combine Shoah education, intercultural learning, and interreligious dialogue.
In addition, classic guided tours of the synagogue and cemetery are available, as well as in-depth modules on extremism, online hate, and democratic responsibility. Most of the formats are free of charge for schools, with individual dialogue modules offered for a symbolic contribution per student. The result is tailor-made educational offerings that impressively combine historical facts, personal stories, and social relevance.
The former Kobersdorf synagogue impressively demonstrates how history can be brought to life in an authentic location. It is not only a monument to the past, but also an active place of learning that sensitizes young people, links remembrance with responsibility, and promotes democratic action.
Interested schools can book appointments throughout the year. Bookings and inquiries
Tel: +43 (0) 664 85 44 527
[email protected]
www.synagoge-kobersdorf.at
"Searching for traces in Kobersdorf" © KBB Burgenland
