Israeli audio-visual display near Kristallnacht book-burning site
An Israel-themed sound and light display is screened on the facade of the the German Historical Museum during the Berlin Festival of Lights, meters away from the famous book burning site at Bebelplatz; 'Nothing is more symbolic than this,' says Israeli diplomat.
The event draws more than 2 million visitors every year, and is widely covered on the social media.
The audio-visual display was an initiative by Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and is projected on the facade of the the German Historical Museum, located only 50 meters away from Bebelplatz—the site of the famous book burning that took place during Kristallnacht, 80 years ago.
Rogel Rachman, who leads the publicity department of the Israeli Embassy in Berlin, said that “nothing is more symbolic than the fact that only metres away from the place that symbolizes one of the Jewish people’s lowest points in history, a video-art showcasing Israel’s great achievements in science, art, and culture is projected, showing Jewish and Israeli motifs and Israel's connection to the land and the Hebrew language.”
“Visitors to the exhibition can also see a PR video on a mobile screen which travels around the city," Rachman added. "They are invited to post their selfies with the hashtag #israeloflights and the national symbol of Israel, and could win a visit to Israel in a joint venture with the Ministry of Tourism.”
The festival’s organizers said that the Israeli audio-visual display was one of the most impressive ones they have seen in the 14 years the festival has existed. It showcases the connection of the Jewish people to the land of Israel, the Hebrew language, ancient manuscripts, the Dead Sea Scrolls, Nobel laureates, modern day Israel, Eurovision and more.
