Perhaps you have noticed the rather large duck in the middle of the pond. This is the Entendenkmal. It is no ordinary duck though. The Entendenkmal is a reminder. Let’s uncover its story.
The Stadtgarten has been a place for young and old to relax since 1888. People come to enjoy the green oasis. They stretch their faces towards the sun. Visitors listen to the birds. They watch the ducks waddle toward their oversized friend, the Entendenkmal.
Now, this is no ordinary duck statue. This duck has a very important job. The Entendenkmal is a memorial for world peace. It has stood here since 1953 with its neck stretched upwards. Its beak is open as if it is quacking.
Locals say on November 27, 1944, bombs fell. The British Royal Air Force destroyed much of the old city in minutes. The duck warned the people of Freiburg by quacking loudly. Many people were able to take cover in air raid shelters because of it. Or so the story goes.
The Entendenkmal is made of ceramic. It stands in the middle of a pond. Tall old trees and pond plants surround it. The inscription at the Entendenkmal says. “Die Kreatur Gottes klagt an und mahnt.” This translates to: “God’s creature accuses and urges.”
The Entendenkmal is a renewed copy of Richard Bampi’s original ceramic artwork. David Steinbrück made the copy from limestone. The Entendenkmal serves as a reminder of the horrors of war. It urges us to strive for peace. It reminds us to listen for the warnings. The warnings of history.
Take a moment to reflect on the Entendenkmal’s message. Remember the importance of peace. Think about the fragility of our world. Consider how even a duck can become a symbol of hope.