Museum of Survivors opens at site where Oskar Schindler saved 1,200 Jews

In Brnenec, Czech Republic, a significant historical site has been revitalized as the Museum of Survivors, dedicated to the Holocaust and the Jewish history of the region. The newly opened museum stands where Oskar Schindler, a German businessman, courageously saved 1,200 Jews during World War II. This weekend marked its opening, welcoming its first visitors and reviving a site that had fallen into neglect over the years. The initiative to restore the museum was led by Daniel Löw-Beer, whose family has deep roots in the area. They acquired the industrial plant in 1854, transforming it into a prominent wool factory in Europe. Löw-Beer's personal motivation stems from a history of lost connections; he reflected on how his ancestors had to flee due to the war, which made the restoration of this site an important act of reclaiming history. The museum features displays about Schindler, his wife Emilie, along with testimonials from Holocaust survivors, highlighting its mission to share personal stories of survival and resilience. Furthermore, the museum aims to bridge the gap between the past and present through its unique architectural features, including a glass wall that separates these two eras. The project received support from regional government funding and contributions from the European Union, which also facilitated collaboration with children from five European countries, who helped in designing the museum. Despite this successful opening, the site still requires further restoration work. Several buildings, including Schindler's office, SS troops barracks, and living quarters for Jewish prisoners, await development. Previous restoration efforts faltered due to financial constraints, yet Löw-Beer's persistence emphasizes the belief that there is always something that can be done. His work alongside the local community is essential to revive this historical location and ensure the memory of those saved by Schindler endures.