This historic path takes visitors on an informative journey through the city’s past while highlighting its commitment to human rights.
The Way of Human Rights was established in 2007 as part of Nuremberg’s 800th anniversary celebrations. It stretches over two kilometers along the banks of the Pegnitz River and consists of 21 plaques which commemorate key events in Germany’s history related to human rights. The plaques feature text written by renowned authors such as Nobel Prize winner Günter Grass and former German President Roman Herzog, as well as quotes from famous figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.
The first plaque marks Nuremberg’s role in establishing universal human rights principles during World War II, when it became known for hosting international war crimes trials against Nazi leaders. Other plaques highlight important milestones, including the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Germany’s ratification of the European Convention on Human Rights in 1950.
Alongside these historical markers are sculptures created by artists from around Europe depicting various aspects of freedom, justice, peace, solidarity, and tolerance – all core values associated with protecting human rights worldwide. One particularly striking sculpture is ‘Die Freiheit des Denkens und Handelns’ (Freedom to Think & Act), which features three giant hands reaching up towards each other, symbolizing mutual understanding between individuals regardless of their background or beliefs.
By following this path, visitors can gain insight into how far we have come in terms of our fight for global protection against discrimination, while also being reminded that there is still much more work to be done before everyone has access to basic civil liberties across borders.
