Herdenking Wereldoorlog Standbeeld: A Tribute to Civilian Victims

The Herdenking Wereldoorlog Standbeeld, situated on Vredeplein in Aalst, is a poignant memorial dedicated to the civilian victims of the First and Second World Wars. Unveiled in 1956, twelve years after the liberation of Aalst, the monument serves as a focal point for annual commemorations, particularly on Armistice Day, November 11th. The monument, designed by architect Stany De Neef and sculptor Marc De Bruyn, features three imposing columns. Between these columns, an eternal flame burns in a bronze bowl, symbolizing enduring remembrance. The sculpture is a moving representation of a grieving mother and child, set against the backdrop of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. This powerful imagery evokes the suffering and devastation endured by civilians during times of war. The monument's location on Vredeplein (Peace Square) further emphasizes its message of peace and reconciliation. The square provides a space for reflection and remembrance, inviting visitors to contemplate the human cost of conflict. The memorial stands as a testament to the resilience of the Aalst community and its commitment to honoring those who lost their lives during the world wars.