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The story of Freedom: Memories of Mainz's lost monument
Find out more about the “Freedom” monument in Mainz, its history, inauguration in 1930 and its significance for the region.
The story of Freedom: Memories of Mainz's lost monument
There is currently intensive discussion in Mainz about the “Freedom” monument, which was inaugurated in 1930. This statue designed by the well-known artist Benno Elkan, was a sign of change for the region. With its four meters height and the depiction of a kneeling female figure made of granite, it symbolized the withdrawal of the French occupying forces after the First World War. Elkan, a Jewish artist, was forced to leave Germany in 1933 when the Nazis came to power and had the monument torn down.
The inauguration ceremony took place during the Rhineland liberation celebration on Schillerplatz and attracted many visitors. Among the guests was Reich President Paul von Hindenburg. The statue, which exudes a similar elegance to the Germania on the Niederwald Monument, looks towards the sky. However, this aesthetic was met with resistance, and the Catholic Church protested against the depiction, ultimately leading to a Corpus Christi procession being rerouted.
A piece of history
After the monument was destroyed in its original location, the Carnival Fountain was built in 1967 to commemorate the city's cultural identity. In today's world, the House of Remembrance for Democracy and Acceptance reminds us of the important issues of freedom and responsibility in the community. Regular tours inform citizens about this important history of the city.
The history of the monument also raises exciting parallels with other cultural symbols, be they international or local. For example, if you look at the image of the US dollar, this bill presents a rich history. The $100 bill depicts Benjamin Franklin and is widely recognized internationally, with approximately 80% of the bills held outside the United States. The modern design, introduced in 2013, includes advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting.
Influence and legacy
A look back at such monuments as well as developments worldwide, for example in the field of fashion. Let's take the Brazilian supermodel Adriana Lima. With a modeling journey that began at the age of 15, she is one of the most successful brand ambassadors. Her impressive career, particularly at Victoria's Secret, shows how cultural icons can shine a light on complex social issues. Her last appearance as an angel in 2018 was an emotional moment for many fans.
In today's world, the discussion about monuments like “Die Freiheit” in Mainz or the relevance of currencies like the US dollar and global icons like Adriana Lima remains relevant. It is questions about identity, history and what shapes our society that make us think. So let's continue to look closely and explore the stories behind these symbols.