Remembering History
The history of Kreisau/Krzyżowa inspires. It represents
In our funding programs and our own foundation projects, we honor the courageous resistance fighters of the Kreisau Circle. We focus on issues related to the development of Europe and German-Polish relations.
Current Project:
Graphic Novel
The moving lives of resistance fighters Helmuth James and Freya von Moltke will soon be depicted in a graphic novel. This project aims to reach a wide audience and raise public interest in the history of the Kreisau Circle.
The project is being carried out by the Freya von Moltke Foundation in cooperation with the Helmuth James von Moltke Forum. The story is being developed and illustrated by Niels Schröder, who has previously worked on several graphic novels, including Resistance. Tony Sender, Julius Leber, Theodor Haubach – Fighting for Freedom and Against Dictatorship . The graphic novel is set to be published by C.H. Beck, with its release scheduled for spring 2027.
Current Project:
Conversations with Witnesses of History
Eyewitness conversations open a vivid dialogue that preserves memories and paves the way for a democratic future.
Across generations, these exchanges offer valuable insights—sharing experiences, perspectives, and reflections on the relevance of history for our present day.
Eyewitnesses such as Helmuth Caspar von Moltke and Sabine Reichwein offer personal insights into the resistance against National Socialism.
Their stories vividly illustrate how family histories and historical events are deeply intertwined. These conversations create space for dialogue, foster historical awareness, and strengthen the sense of responsibility in future generations. They encourage active engagement in building a democratic and peaceful society. The Freya von Moltke Foundation is committed to making these meaningful encounters possible and to facilitating powerful conversations.
Completed Projects
Since our foundation was established, we have brought the history of Kreisau to life through numerous projects. You can find a selection here.
The deeply moving love story of resistance fighters Helmuth James von Moltke and his wife Freya is portrayed by director Antje Starost and filmmaker Hans Helmut Grotjahn in their 2017 documentary ‘The Story of a Love – Freya.’
Our foundation supported Antje Starost and Hans Helmut Grotjahn in an advisory capacity and provided financial assistance for the production. In January 2025, the film was once again shown on the big screen at Berlin’s filmkunst 66 cinema. The moving event was met with great enthusiasm by the audience, and the film will also be shown in other German cities in 2025.
The critically acclaimed documentary is available for purchase.
In his letters, written between January and October 1944 from Gestapo custody, Helmuth James von Moltke recounts his eventful life at the Kreisau estate, the turmoil of the First World War, and the period that followed. These poignant historical documents are narrated by his son, Helmuth Caspar von Moltke.
Our project was made possible through numerous donations. The audio CD is freely available to anyone interested. If you would like a copy, please feel free to contact us.
The deeply personal correspondence between Helmuth James and Freya von Moltke during the final weeks before his execution in Plötzensee Prison is among the most significant records of resistance against National Socialism. In 2017, these letters were published in Polish under the title ‘Listy na pożegnanie’ by Znak Verlag.
Our foundation supported the publication, organised numerous readings, and provided Polish schools and libraries with copies of the book.
This exhibition portrays 20 women and their fight against the injustices and terror of National Socialism. It includes both well-known and lesser-known figures from a range of political backgrounds and social classes, showcasing the diversity of resistance and its enduring impact. Among the women highlighted is Freya von Moltke.
The exhibition was realised by the Evangelical Press Association for Bavaria e.V. Our foundation contributed information and images and is a cooperation partner on this project.
In cooperation with the Kreisau Initiative e. V. and the Kreisau Foundation for European Understanding, we manage a database of historical images related to the Kreisau Circle, Kreisau Estate, the Reconciliation Mass, and the reconstruction of New Kreisau. If you are a researcher or simply interested, feel free to reach out to info@fvms.de
Our foundation initiated the project and provided the funding for the development of the database.
