Doesn’t this Ehrenmal evoke a sense of somber reflection? Formally known as the Gedenkstätte für die Gefallenen und Opfer des Ersten und Zweiten Weltkriegs, the Kriegerdenkmal stands as a powerful reminder. It commemorates the fallen and the victims of the First and Second World Wars.
The Kriegerdenkmal wasn’t always seen as a beacon of peace. Originally opened in 1926, this memorial has seen its share of controversy and transformation. Its location is on the northern edge of the Karlsaue. This is Kassel’s central park.
To reach the Kriegerdenkmal’s four levels, visitors must climb steep stairs. Once atop this terraced garden, a commanding view awaits. The statue at its heart is “Der Gefallene” or The Fallen One. This sculpture is by Professor Hans Sautter. It depicts a fallen soldier shrouded in a flag. The flag symbolizes his loyalty to the fatherland.
However, not everyone appreciated Sautter’s work. Some veteran associations criticized the statue. They felt the expression was not heroic enough. They thought it showed too much suffering. They also noted the absence of sword and shield.
In fact, the Nazis disliked it so much they covered the statue. In 1933, Sautter was forced to leave his position. He had been the director at the Staatlichen Kunstgewerbeschule Kassel.
Loretana de Libero noted that heated emotions have swirled around the cold stone since its inauguration. The memorial was misused for political purposes and future war.
Over time, the Kriegerdenkmal suffered damage. Vandalism marred its surfaces. Unknown individuals broke off the statue’s nose and ears. Graffiti caused tens of thousands of euros in damage.
Today, the Kriegerdenkmal serves as a place of learning. It contributes to understanding and peace in Europe. It reminds us that without war, there would be no fallen. Without the fallen, there would be no need for memorials.
In 1987, a plaque was added to commemorate Wehrmacht deserters who were executed. This addition sparked passionate debates. Representatives from soldier groups, the CDU, and the FDP protested.
Extensive renovations, costing nearly three million euros, restored the Ehrenmal. In her speech at the reopening, Minister Angela Dorn emphasized the importance of remembering the events of both World Wars. She stated that the Kriegerdenkmal symbolizes all victims of war and has transformed into a monument for peace.
The Volksbund is the only organization authorized to offer tours of the site. These tours provide historical context. The tours promote understanding of the memorial’s significance. These tours highlight the Kriegerdenkmal’s complex history.