Freiburg's relationship with historical landmarks


The Freiburg Münster (cathedral in English), stands proudly in the heart of the city centre as the tallest building of the city. It is one of the few buildings in Freiburg that survived the 1940 bombing. Therefore, the historical importance surrounding it is massive. However, instead of putting it on a pedestal, the city maintains a close and homely relationship with it, as if it is any other building. Every afternoon, there is a market with local produce at the Münster. Every now and then, I go there with my friends to relax and stargaze at night.

This casual relationship is also maintained with the Platz der Alten Synagoge (Old Synagogue Square). This square is located just outside the city centre across from the University Bibliothek and the Freiburg Theater. It was created in honor of the Jewish Synagogue, which was burnt during the Nazi Regime. Although it is deeply revered by the people of Freiburg, the Platz der Alten Synagoge has been engulfed into the rest of the city. Right next to the memorial, there is a fountain which has become a popular playing area for children. People are often playing instruments, passing a football or just hanging out with friends at the square. Basically, it is treated like any other square.

I find these things very fascinating because in the US or India, places of such historical significance are usually venerate so deeply that they are separated from the city and its people. Instead of being engulfed as a part of the city, they are usually set aside as a museum exhibit. As a result, people don't have a very close relationship to these landmarks. They often don't even know their significance and rarely visit them. On the other hand, in Freiburg, I pass the Platz der Alten Synagoge everyday, and visit the market at the Münster every now and then.

I think that a close and homely relationship with historical landmarks is a very good idea because it effectively propagates the idea behind it. Had these landmarks not been part of my everyday experiences, I probably would not even have known what they are called. Therefore, instead putting historical sites on a tall pedestal, I think they should be engulfed into the city as is the case in Freiburg.

        










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