“A tribute to the fallen” is subtly inscribed into the stones of the Gefallenendenkmal. This war memorial stands as a somber reminder of sacrifice. The Gefallenendenkmal in Konstanz prompts reflection.
Let’s delve into the story of this monument. It serves as a place to remember those lost in war. Specifically, it commemorates soldiers from Stockach who died in World War I.
The Kriegerdenkmal in Stockach faced over a decade of local debate regarding its design and location. Finally, it was inaugurated on June 3, 1934. It honored those who died in the First World War.
Erwin Krumm from Elzach designed the memorial. He was a sculptor. The Gefallenendenkmal stands on the main street in front of St. Oswald Church. It is hard to miss this prominent memorial.
The monument is a 15-meter-high obelisk with a flattened top. This obelisk stands on a cube-shaped base. Each side of the upper section features a metal Iron Cross. The Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik made these crosses.
During commemorations, a sacred fire could be lit on the obelisk’s flat top. Relief panels made of artificial stone are placed above the base on each side. Freiburg art molder Roose created these relief sculptures. The figures are larger than life and elaborately detailed. They emerge from their frames almost fully sculpted.
The west side depicts Saint George slaying the dragon. Saint George thrusts his lance into the dragon on the ground. Originally, his shield bore the inscription: “Der deutschen Zwietracht mitten ins Herz”. This translates to: “Into the heart of German discord”. A bronze plaque beneath this relief lists the names of 110 soldiers from Stockach. These soldiers died in the war or as a result of the war.
The other panels are titled “Der Verwundete” that means “The Wounded”. There is also “Ausmarschierende mit Eichenlaub geschmückte, singende Krieger”. This means “Marching, singing warriors adorned with oak leaves”. Finally, there is “Fallender Held” that is “Falling Hero”. The inscription beneath the last relief reads: “Den Gefallenen des Weltkrieges gewidmet von ihrer Heimatstadt Stockach”. That means “Dedicated to the Fallen of the World War by their hometown of Stockach”.
Many soldiers from Stockach died in the Winterberg Tunnel in early May 1917. This tragic event adds another layer of sorrow to the memorial’s significance.
The Gefallenendenkmal serves as a testament to loss. It is a reminder of the impact of war on Stockach and its people. The monument stands as a solemn tribute to those who paid the ultimate price. It ensures their sacrifices are not forgotten.