A silent angel stands guard. This is the Mahnmal an den Bombenkrieg in Münster. It’s a poignant reminder of a devastating past.
The Mahnmal an den Bombenkrieg is more than just a statue. It’s a memorial. This sandstone angel with a raised arm and torch stands on a pedestal. Beneath it lies a bronze plaque. The inscription reads “He is risen he is no longer here”.
This angel wasn’t always here. It originally belonged to a grave. In 1984 it found its current home. The Zentralfriedhofskommission moved it. This section of the Zentralfriedhof was specifically designated for civilian war victims in 1943.
The Mahnmal an den Bombenkrieg commemorates 1264 civilian lives lost. Münster endured over 100 air raids during World War II. Many innocent people perished in the bombings. The actual number of victims is likely higher than the 1264 recorded. Precise figures remain elusive. Many cities faced similar difficulties recording casualties.
The bronze plaque adds another layer to the story. It solemnly remembers the 1264 Münster residents who lost their lives in the bombing war between 1940 and 1945.
Every November the Volksbund Deutsche Kriegsgräberfürsorge and the city of Münster lay a wreath here. They remember the fallen at this gravesite and at the grave of the Clemensschwestern. The Mahnmal an den Bombenkrieg serves as a focal point of remembrance. It silently bears witness to the city’s suffering.
This angel silently watches over this place. It serves as a powerful symbol of loss and resilience. The Mahnmal an den Bombenkrieg is a memorial for all to remember the devastating impact of war. It urges reflection and a commitment to peace. The angel’s silent vigil continues. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Münster. The Mahnmal an den Bombenkrieg ensures those lost are never forgotten.