The Museum is at once a museum devoted to the exploration of Jewish heritage and a living memorial to the Holocaust. It depicts in detail the lives and communities that shaped Jewish culture in the early part of the century, for it is only through an understanding of life before the Holocaust that one may truly begin to comprehend the magnitude of its destruction - and the sense of determination and courage that shaped the renewal of Jewish life after the war.

The Museum differs from other institutions of memory by telling the story of the Holocaust from the perspective of those who experienced it. The personal objects and photographs that illustrate the story of 20th century Jewish history are at home in a venue for memory and learning, which also offers musical and theatrical performances, lively lectures and debates, thought-provoking films, and special events for visitors of all ages.