Is it possible for stone to speak? The Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele stands here. It is a powerful testament to a tragic past.
This isn’t just a monument of stone. The Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele is a reminder of resilience and remembrance. It stands in Henri Michaux Square. This square is opposite Tenbosch Park. The Committee of Armenians of Belgium initiated its creation. Architect Isabelle Jakhian designed it. The Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele was inaugurated in 1997.
Look closely at the red tuff stone stela. Notice how it rises from a blue stone base. The Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele bears inscriptions in both French and Dutch. They read: “To the 1,500,000 Armenians, victims of the genocide carried out on the orders of the Ottoman leaders of 1915.” On the left, you will find entries in Armenian. The stela incorporates traditional religious motifs. These motifs come from the Khachkar tradition. You can see the cross and church. Secular motifs are also present. Look for the sun and a bunch of grapes.
The Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele is more than just a marker of loss. It’s a cultural symbol. It embodies the spirit and heritage of the Armenian people.
Sadly, this memorial has faced acts of vandalism. In one instance, it was defaced with an insult targeting an Armenian member of the Turkish parliament. The insult included three crescent moons. These likely referenced the Turkish flag. The Committee of Armenians in Belgium condemned this act. They called it political vandalism and an incitement to hatred.
The annual memorial day for the Armenian Genocide includes a service. It begins at the Armenian Apostolic Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Ixelles. Participants then walk to the Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele. Here, they hold a further ceremony. In 2022, nearly 500 people gathered. They demonstrated outside the Turkish embassy. The demonstrators called for Turkey to acknowledge the genocide.
The President of the Committee of Armenians in Belgium has emphasized the importance of remembering this genocide. He also highlighted the Shoah and the Tutsi minority genocide.
The Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele stands as a focal point for remembrance. It serves as a call for justice. It urges recognition of historical truths. It stands as a place to unite in grief and hope. It reminds us to learn from history. It also reminds us to maintain human dignity always. The Armenian Genocide memorial of Brussels Stele serves as a solemn reminder of the past. It inspires us to build a future free from hatred and intolerance.