3. National Monument of Solidarity

The National Monument of Solidarity reminds us of the sacrifices during World War II, the resistance movement against and the solidarity of the Luxembourg population in its opposition to the Nazi occupation. Almost 2% of the Luxembourg population fell victim to the NS-Regime.

The memorial was officially unveiled on 10th of October 1971. This was exactly thirty years after the failed census during the German occupation of Luxembourg in its effort to prove the population to be German. The monument has become a symbol of peace, development and respect for human rights.

The monument is located on a rise created with the remains of the former Holy Ghost barracks. A perpetual flame burns in front of the tall structure that symbolises a never-ending sense of solidarity. This flame is relit annually in mid-October in the presence of the Grand Duke and all high-ranking national officials.

Inside the monument is a chapel, respectively a crypt that contains an urn with bloodied earth collected from the Polish concentration camp Sonnenberg. This was the camp where 91 Luxembourg prisoners were executed in January 1945. The internal paved court symbolises prisons, concentration camps and military barracks.

A further two memorials are located on the rise beside the central monument, namely for the ‘Armed Forces’ to commemorate the sacrifice of the Police Service, the Gendarmerie, the Voluntary Company and the ‘Charlotte Corps’ in honour of the former Grand Duchess.

Interesting Detail
The name ‘Kanounenhiwwel’ (Cannon Hill) originates from the cannons placed in this high free space till 1867. They were meant to defend the lower quarters of the city from enemy attack and since 1859 protect the railway bridge, ‘Viaduc’, also called ‘Passerelle’ that had been built outside the fortress walls.

Significance for Human Rights
The National Monument of Solidarity is not just limited to the victims of the Second World War and the members of the resistance movement. Inscribed in stone, it is likewise a message for peace, development and the respect for human rights. It is meant to warn against dictatorship and despotism and represents a call for solidarity with those oppressed and those in need.

Article 2
Everyone is equal regardless of race, colour, sex, language, religion, politics, or where they were born.

Article 3
Everyone has the right to life and to live in freedom and safety.

Article 15
Everyone has the right to a nationality.