Unity in Peace Sculpture

Amidst the bustling European Quarter stands the Unity in Peace Sculpture. It’s more than just a statue. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the dream of a unified Europe. The Unity in Peace Sculpture, also known as the Statue of Europe, is located in the serene garden of Convent Van Maerlant. It’s situated where Rue Van Maerlant meets Chaussée d’Etterbeek. This places it right in the heart of Brussels’ European Quarter. Inaugurated in 2003, the Unity in Peace Sculpture was unveiled during the European Year of People with Disabilities. The timing was significant. The EU’s eastern enlargement was on the horizon, making the message of unity even more potent. The sculpture stands over 5 meters tall and weighs almost 800 kilograms. It’s made of resin, a material that allowed for intricate details and vibrant colors. The Unity in Peace Sculpture depicts intertwined arms of different colors. These represent the diverse cultures and peoples of Europe. Together, they lift a sphere resembling the EU flag, topped by a dove of peace. What makes this sculpture even more remarkable is its creation. Visually impaired children, guided by French artist Bernard Romain, crafted this symbol of unity. Romain aimed to showcase that disability is not a barrier to creativity and contribution. The Unity in Peace Sculpture stands as a powerful reminder. It symbolizes the potential of diverse communities to come together, overcome differences, and strive for a shared future.