Monuments aux Morts du XIXe Siècle War memorial

Melancholy hangs heavy in the air here at the Monuments aux Morts du XIXe Siècle. This memorial, nestled in Place Rihour, isn’t just a static sculpture. It’s a living testament to Lille’s resilience. The Monuments aux Morts du XIXe Siècle was erected in 1924. It stands on the very spot where Lille’s town hall once stood, before it was tragically destroyed by fire in 1916. The architect, Jacques Alleman, and sculptor, Edgar Boutry, originally envisioned a piece titled “Melancolia,” depicting the hardships of Lille’s occupation during World War I. The Monuments aux Morts du XIXe Siècle became the starting point for a commemorative route honoring local resistance heroes like Louise de Bettignies and Léon Trulin. The memorial’s design shifted. It now features allegories, one representing the plight of hostages. In July 1915, hundreds of Lille citizens were imprisoned or deported to Germany for acts of resistance against the occupying forces. Later, in November 1916, another 300 civilians, including then-Mayor Gustave Delory, were sent to camps. This was a tactic to pressure the French government into releasing German hostages. The Monuments aux Morts du XIXe Siècle bears a poignant inscription. It’s dedicated to “The people of Lille, soldiers and civilians, who died for Peace.” This dedication reflects a powerful sentiment, chosen despite calls for a more overtly patriotic message. The Monuments aux Morts du XIXe Siècle is more than just a monument. It represents Lille’s enduring spirit and its unwavering pursuit of peace.