Could a column of stone embody the spirit of a community? The Essener Säule der Gemeinschaft or Essen Community Pillar does just that. Inaugurated on November 18 2002 this landmark enriches the square before Essen’s Land and Amtsgericht building.
This 4.5-meter-high sculpture stands as a testament to community. It is made of Eifel basalt. The artist Günther Oellers from Linz/Rhein created it. It was a joint project by the city and the justice department. You will find the Essener Säule der Gemeinschaft on Zweigertstraße.
The artist calls it the “Essen Community Pillar”. It highlights the concept of people coming together. These include societal groups and state institutions. Oellers chiseled abstracted human figures into the stone. It does not depict a mass of individuals. It shows their actions and destiny within the community. The Essener Säule der Gemeinschaft champions acceptance and tolerance. It underscores the importance of communication. It also highlights interaction to achieve these goals.
Oellers had been contemplating this artwork for years. He created a highly regarded memorial. It was for the former Berlin-Lichterfelde concentration camp. It addressed a similar theme encouraging reflection.
The City of Essen owns the land. It commissioned the Essener Säule der Gemeinschaft. Together with the Landgericht Essen the project was realized. The city and the court send a message. It is a message of tolerance and justice among people. Xenophobia racism and intolerance have no place in human interaction. A peaceful and understanding coexistence is paramount.
Public funds were scarce at the time. So third-party assistance was essential. The district council of Rüttenscheid contributed to repaving the forecourt. It was in front of the main portal of the court building. The WAZ Media Group now Funke Media Group provided funding. They are the owners of the land. They also commissioned the artwork. HochTief AG agreed to build the pillar’s foundation for the City of Essen.
The Essener Säule der Gemeinschaft stands as a reminder. It promotes these ideals every day. Take a moment to observe the figures carved into the basalt. Consider the message they convey. A message of unity acceptance and mutual respect. Before you stands a symbol of Essen’s commitment. It is committed to a harmonious and inclusive community. The Landgericht Essen has published a brochure about the Essener Säule der Gemeinschaft.