On September 4, 2023, Antwerp commemorates the 79th anniversary of its liberation from German occupation during World War II. While the war would continue for
another year and the city would endure ongoing bomb attacks, this day holds great significance in Antwerp's history.
The city's annual remembrance carries the tagline "Always Free. Never Self-Evident," serving as a reminder for society to appreciate the value of freedom and not take it for granted.
The Significance of Remembrance
Residents and visitors of Antwerp can access walking and cycling maps that guide them through routes associated with the war's history and the city's role in it. As the liberation did not occur simultaneously across all of Antwerp's districts, the city has placed signs in various locations, providing explanations of the timeline for each area. Antwerp's city authorities state, "With these commemorative points, the city keeps the memory of the war alive. We never want to forget the victims and the events of that time, and we remain committed to upholding values such as freedom and equality."
Starting on September 8, MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) will host the new permanent exhibition titled 'City at War: Antwerp, 1940-1945.' This collection aims to immerse viewers in the experiences of society during the war.
The Beginning of the End
On September 4, 1944, the first British tanks entered Antwerp. While jubilant crowds filled the streets, battles persisted in other parts of the city. World War II would only come to a close six months later, on May 8, 1945.
While the liberation of Antwerp is a historical moment worth celebrating, it does not diminish the preceding horrors or the challenges that persisted afterward. The city lay in ruins, and its inhabitants grappled with hunger and mourned the loss of family and friends.
Antwerp's commemorative project seeks to shed light on the city's history while fostering ongoing discussions about freedom in Belgium and Europe. Their press release emphasizes, "This is how we celebrate the democratic values that unite us, and we understand that these values require our constant attention." The Antwerp Commemorates website offers interactive timelines about the war, survivor stories, videos, and additional information. Photo by Imperial War Museum collection, Wikimedia commons.