Mystery shrouds Apelstein 26 Obelisk. It stands as a silent sentinel. It whispers tales of a bygone era. Apelstein 26 Obelisk marks a pivotal moment during the Battle of Leipzig in 1813. This obelisk, like its 49 counterparts, was commissioned by Theodor Apel. He was a Leipzig citizen and writer who sought to preserve the memory of this colossal clash of nations.
Theodor Apel funded 44 of these stones between 1861 and 1864. Six more were erected later by private individuals, from Apel’s foundation, and by various associations. The Apelstein 26 Obelisk specifically commemorates the actions of Prince Moritz von Liechtenstein. He commanded the 1st Austrian Light Division, consisting of 5,500 men, during the Battle of Leipzig. The inscription on Apelstein 26 Obelisk faces the former battlefield. It details the name and date of the engagement. The opposite side lists the names of the commanders. It notes troop designations and strengths. Two arrows on the narrow sides of the obelisk indicate the front line’s progression. The top of the stone marks the cardinal directions.
Originally, these Apelsteine were rectangular sandstone columns, approximately 1.5 meters tall. Those marking Allied positions have a pointed top. It represents an inverted “V”. They are also inscribed with the letter “V”. Stones marking Napoleonic positions have a rounded top and are inscribed with an “N”. Apelstein 26, dedicated to the Allied forces, bears the pointed top and the “V” inscription. The inscription on Apelstein 26 also mentions the “Battle of Leipzig”. It mistakenly attributes the engagement to October 18th. The battle around Lindenau, where Prince Liechtenstein’s division fought, actually took place on October 16th, 1813. This minor error serves as a reminder of the complexities of historical record-keeping.
Over time, many Apelsteine have been replaced with copies. The original sandstone proved susceptible to weathering. Development encroached upon their locations. These replicas, sometimes made of more durable materials, may differ slightly in size and shape from the originals. Some even have textual errors. Apelstein 26 is located in Plagwitz, at the intersection of Antonienstraße and Wachsmuthstraße. It stands as a testament to a tumultuous period in European history. It invites us to reflect on the sacrifices made during the Battle of Leipzig. This battle was a decisive turning point in the Napoleonic Wars. It contributed to Napoleon’s eventual downfall.