“For Peace,” the inscription declares. But what stories of conflict lie behind the Monument aux morts 14-18?
This monument stands on Place Rihour. It marks a spot rich with history. It’s the former site of Lille’s town hall. A fire destroyed the building in 1916 during the First World War.
In 1924, the city council chose this place for the Monument aux morts 14-18. Architect Jacques Alleman proposed the monument.
Initially, veterans protested the city’s choice. They wanted a monument dedicated to the Fatherland. Instead, the council chose a monument for those who died for peace. The official name became “To the people of Lille, soldiers and civilians who died for Peace”.
The Monument aux morts 14-18 became the start of a commemorative route. This route honors Lille’s resistance fighters of the Great War. The route includes Louise de Bettignies and Léon Trulin. It also honors members of the Jacquet Committee.
The sculptor Edgar Boutry collaborated with Jacques Alleman. Their project was named “Melancolia”. It represents the dramatic occupation of Lille from 1914 to 1918. The sculptures’ program changed. Allegories replaced some original ideas. One allegory recalls the fate of captives. These captives suffered because of public order during the occupation.
In July 1915, thirty hostages were imprisoned. They were held in the Citadel. Another 131 people were deported to Germany. This was after Lille workers refused to work for the occupying army. In November 1916, 300 civilians were sent to a camp. Even Mayor Gustave Delory was among them. The goal was to force the French government to release German hostages.
Today, the Monument aux morts 14-18 stands against the chapel of the Palais Rihour. It is a gathering place for remembrance ceremonies. It reminds us of Lille’s suffering during the First World War. The monument honors those who died for peace. It serves as a reminder of the city’s resilience. It is a powerful symbol of hope amidst the ruins of war.