“Freedom is not a matter of course here”. These words echo around Plein ’40-’45. They remind us of the Vrijheidscarillon. This carillon stands tall as a symbol of liberty. It urges us to reflect on the lack of freedom in other parts of the world.
The Vrijheidscarillon is more than just a musical instrument. It is a monument. The Vrijheidscarillon is a reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom. We are standing in front of the Vrijheidscarillon. It is on Plein ’40-’45. This square is Amsterdam’s second most important square for commemorating freedom after Dam Square.
Dick Slebos designed the Vrijheidscarillon in 1952. He collaborated with bell foundry Van Bergen. The Committee for National Remembrance commissioned it. Slebos was known for bridges and tunnels. He created a robust structure for the Vrijheidscarillon. It features a 15-meter-high bell tower. It rests on sloping concrete pillars. There is also a platform for speeches. An 18-meter-high flagpole completes the Vrijheidscarillon. The flagpole’s base bears a plaque. It reads: “Here we commemorate our fallen from the years 1940-1945.”
Initially, the Vrijheidscarillon was displayed in various locations. It was even on Dam Square in 1955. In 1961, it found its permanent home here. The City of Amsterdam chose this square. It is in the ‘Resistance Heroes’ neighborhood. Streets here are named after Dutch resistance fighters from World War II. Queen Juliana unveiled the Vrijheidscarillon on Liberation Day, May 5, 1961.
The Vrijheidscarillon contains 31 bells. One is a large striking bell. The largest bell is named after Queen Wilhelmina. Others honor Princess Juliana and Prince Bernhard. The eleven provinces also have bells. Flevoland did not exist yet. The nine small bells bear the national motto ‘Je maintiendrai’. It means ‘I will maintain’. King Willem I added this to the Dutch coat of arms in 1815.
In 1995, the Vrijheidscarillon was renovated. Four large bass bells were added. Four smaller bells were also added. They are named after royal family members. These are Beatrix, Willem-Alexander, Johan Friso, and Constantijn. Beatrix’s bell is the heaviest at 265 kg. The Vrijheidscarillon now has a range of two and a half octaves.
Since 2011, the Vrijheidscarillon has been a municipal monument. This includes the bell tower. It also includes the speaker’s platform and flagpole. The Vrijheidscarillon can help us value our freedom. Consider how you can contribute to the freedom of others. Freedom belongs to us all.
Each year on May 4th, a commemoration is held here. People gather to remember the victims of World War II. The ‘Last Post’ is played. The Carillon sounds. There are two minutes of silence. The Dutch National Anthem is sung. It is a moving tribute to those who sacrificed everything.
Take a moment to appreciate the Vrijheidscarillon. Let its bells remind you of the importance of freedom. Reflect on the past. Think about the future. Consider your role in preserving freedom for all. The Vrijheidscarillon is a symbol of hope. It is a call to action.