“Our loved ones went away together on 17 July 2014.” These words echo in the heart of the Nationaal Monument MH17 Garden. This garden is a living tribute to the 298 souls lost on flight MH17.
The Nationaal Monument MH17 is located in Park Vijfhuizen near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. This memorial forest offers a place for reflection. It provides comfort and hope to those who grieve.
Imagine a ribbon of green. It rises and falls with the landscape. This ribbon is formed by 298 trees. Each tree represents a victim of the MH17 disaster. The trees symbolize growth, hope, and life.
Relatives chose each tree. Ten different species were selected. These trees were provided by Ebben Nurseries. The lime tree was chosen especially for the fifteen crew members. Travel companions are represented by the same tree species.
Around the trees, thousands of sunflowers bloom. They bloom around July 17th each year. This date marks the day of the tragic event. The sunflowers recall the fields in Ukraine where the plane wreckage fell.
At the heart of the Nationaal Monument MH17 Garden lies an amphitheater. Within it stands a monument bearing the names of all the victims. The names are arranged in a spiral. The monument is made of corten steel. It will rust over time. This symbolizes the enduring grief of the families.
The Nationaal Monument MH17 was carefully planned. Landscape architect Robbert de Koning created the design. It was based on an idea by designer Arold Jansen.
The construction of the Nationaal Monument MH17 began in late 2016. The first trees were planted on March 18, 2017. The official opening took place on July 17, 2017. It was exactly three years after the disaster.
The planting ceremony was deeply moving. Government officials and Malaysia Airlines representatives attended. They spoke of hope, memory, and courage. A minute of silence honored the victims.
The Nationaal Monument MH17 is more than just a garden. It is a place of remembrance. It is open 24 hours a day. Visitors can easily access it from Schiphol Airport and Haarlem.
The entire monument is wheelchair-friendly. Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash. There are many benches for quiet contemplation.
The Nationaal Monument MH17 depends on donations. These donations support maintenance and improvements. Your contribution can help preserve this important memorial. It ensures that the memory of the 298 victims lives on. It offers solace and peace.