Discovering Jewish Life in Freiburg with FreiBuddy's AR Experience
‍

History isn’t just about dates—it’s about people, their experiences, and the way their stories shape the present. That’s exactly what FreiBuddy does. This new AR-powered app from the Freiburg Documentation Center on National Socialism brings Jewish life in Freiburg to the forefront through interactive city tours. Even before the center officially opens in March, FreiBuddy lets you explore Jewish heritage in Freiburg in a way that feels personal and real.

‍

‍

More Than Just History: Three Unique Stories

FreiBuddy offers three immersive 90-minute tours, each giving a different perspective on Jewish life in Freiburg. One follows Nathalie, a young woman uncovering her great-grandmother’s life in 1930s Freiburg. Another tells the story of a family that will soon move to the city, navigating their way into the Jewish community. The third follows two backpackers curious to discover what Jewish life in Freiburg looks like today. These are fictional stories based on real historical facts and set in authentic locations, making the experience both educational and engaging.


‍A Community Effort

FreiBuddy isn’t just another history app—it was developed with input from over 100 students, teachers, and members of Freiburg’s Jewish community. The goal is not just to educate about the past but also to shine a light on Jewish life today, fostering understanding and connection. Throughout the tours, you’ll also meet real people from Freiburg’s Jewish communities who share their personal experiences, adding depth and authenticity to the journey.

‍

Why It Matters

By blending AR technology with storytelling, FreiBuddy transforms how we engage with both history and the present. Exploring real-world locations through interactive narratives makes learning more dynamic and meaningful.

At ZAUBAR, we’re passionate about using AI and AR to create immersive experiences that connect people with history in ways that feel alive and relevant. Would you take a walk with Nathalie, the new family, or the backpackers? We’d love to hear what you think!




Video credits: Dokumentationszentrum Nationalsozialismus der Städtischen Museen Freiburg

‍