Dedicated to peace not patriotism, the Stèle aux Anciens Combattants stands as a testament to Lille’s poignant history. The Stèle aux Anciens Combattants is more than just a monument. It’s a starting point. It marks a commemorative route dedicated to Lille’s Great War resistance heroes.
Despite protests, the city council chose peace. In 1924, architect Jacques Alleman proposed a monument dedicated to the people of Lille. These people died for peace. They didn’t die for the Fatherland. This Stèle aux Anciens Combattants is on Place Rihour. It stands on the remains of the town hall. The town hall burnt down in 1916.
The Stèle aux Anciens Combattants serves as a gathering place. It is a place for all commemorative events. This imposing monument leans against a chapel. The chapel is the last remnant. It is the final legacy of the medieval palace. Dukes of Burgundy once resided here.
The Stèle aux Anciens Combattants embodies pacifism. It contains three allegories. These are Captives, the Relief, and Peace. The Captives allegory reminds us of a sad fate. The people of Lille depended on public order. Their lives were subject to German occupation.
The Stèle aux Anciens Combattants places Peace at the top. This symbolizes a powerful message. Thanks to the fighters, captives, and the Relief, peace could return. The Stèle aux Anciens Combattants honors figures like Louise de Bettignies. It also honors Léon Trulin. Members of the Jacquet Committee are also remembered here. The Stèle aux Anciens Combattants stands not just as stone. It stands as a symbol of remembrance. It honors those who fought for peace in a war-torn Lille.