Recalling the grand dukes of old, we gather before the Ludwigsdenkmal. This monument honors Grand Duke Ludwig IV of Hesse and by Rhine. It stands here in Worms on the Rhine.
The Ludwigsdenkmal was erected in 1895. The city administration initiated the project. Funds came from the population. Karl Hofmann, Worms’ city architect, designed it. The Ludwigsdenkmal commemorates the military achievements of the Grand Duke Ludwig IV who died in 1892. He commanded the Grand Ducal Hessian troops. Specifically, he led the Grand Ducal Hessian 25th Infantry Division. These troops fought before Gravelotte and Metz in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71.
Consider the history. Ludwig IV commanded his troops in the war against France. France had elevated his ancestor. Napoleon had made him Grand Duke. Yet Ludwig served under Prussian command. Earlier, in 1866, his predecessor, Grand Duke Ludwig III, had fled. He escaped to Worms from his territory on the right bank of the Rhine. He feared Prussian troops.
Karl Hofmann designed the 24.30-meter-high Ludwigsdenkmal. Hofmann also created the Rhine bridge, the water tower, and the municipal hospital. Sculptor Johannes Hirt created the sculptures. Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig and his sister Princess Victoria unveiled the Ludwigsdenkmal on July 15, 1895.
The construction of the Ludwigsdenkmal transformed the Paradeplatz. It became a green space. A central water basin and small fountain enhanced the area. The Ludwigsdenkmal was placed at the western end of the square. It consisted of a fountain basin. Behind it, an obelisk stood on a pedestal with waterspouts. Stairs and two stone lions symmetrically flanked the ensemble.
During the Second World War, bombs caused minor damage to the Ludwigsdenkmal. However, the surrounding gardens became a public parking lot after the war. In 1975, an underground parking garage was built under Ludwigsplatz. The Ludwigsdenkmal was dismantled. In the early 1990s, the above-ground parking spaces were removed. The square was redesigned with light-colored stone. The Ludwigsdenkmal returned to its original location. The layout was slightly altered as a reconstruction.
The Ludwigsdenkmal stands as a reminder. It commemorates a grand duke and a complex history. It represents military achievements and civic pride. The Ludwigsdenkmal has survived wars and urban changes. It continues to watch over Ludwigsplatz. It is a symbol of Worms’ past and present.