BLOW OF HEART
THE FOUNTAINS OF BASTOGNE - 1995“ "
The small figures are "Piche Cacaye".
Creation : architecture : Jacques Windeshausen - sculptures : Willy Dory - foundryman : Freddy Baggen.
Calendar
"I was 20 in '45 in Bastogne"
situation
place en Piconrue
6600 Bastogne (Bastogne)
Contact
Musée 20 ans en 45
place en Piconrue
6600 Bastogne
Tel : +32 (0)61/50 20 02
Website : www.si-bastogne.be
Email :
Description
The Bastogne museum is totally new and original. This is why, within the context of the sixtieth anniversary of the famous Battle of the Ardennes, the organizers are proposing a museum focused on memories. It will also deal with the elementary values of our democratic principles through the accounts of those who were part of the history. Indeed, the new concept of the Bastogne museum goes well beyond simply recalling this bloody battle – it is a showcase for the eternal fight for democracy and liberty. Priority will consequently be given to the human aspect throughout the exhibition. Therefore, interactive stands providing “accounts” will line the circuit and serve as the connecting thread for the whole exhibition. Visitors will begin their visit on the ground floor where an introduction will immediately highlight the importance of the Battle of the Ardennes, using, in particular, a graphic timeline for support. A selection of documents will then illustrate life under the Occupation with themes such as rationing and the black market, the Resistance and collaboration. As Mr. Philippe Collard, Mayor of Bastogne, stated, “It is essential to explain the drama experienced by the Ardennes people and the American soldiers, and to present the first phase of the battle as well as the Nazi upsurge”. On the second floor, visitors will see the second phase of the battle and how the town was surrounded. This is presented from a purely strategic and military point of view, but more especially from a human point of view. Visitors will discover the headquarters of the forces present. They will experience the different phases of the battle seen from both the American and German side, day after day. The museum continues on the first floor with the third phase of the battle: the breakthrough by Patton's tanks and the arrival in the ruins of Bastogne. The memories of the surviving witnesses will also be recalled as well as those of the dead, both military and civilian. Finally, a message of hope will be expressed at the end of the exhibition, by emphasizing the essential role of Bastogne and the whole region as a place of remembrance. It is important to highlight the fact that the Battle of the Ardennes is considered, by the Americans themselves, as one of the hardest battles fought by the United States during their history. At the end of the exhibition is the Forum for Democracy. Entitled “Yes for Democracy”, it will symbolize a reconstituted parliamentary chamber where young visitors can play the role of an “elected member”, and virtually participate in voting on bills. Furthermore, this forum will be linked to other towns in order to promote international exchange. It falls within the global context of the “Fight for Democracy” project.
Information
Practical details: Place: Ancien Séminaire, Place Saint Pierre – 6600 Bastogne. Tel.: + 32 (0) 61 50 20 02 Opening times: Every day, except on monday and friday, from 10:00 to 18:00 (last admission at 17:00) Open on public holidays except for 25 December and 1 January. Tariffs: Adults: €6.50 Groups: (+ 20 people with an accompanying person [free]) €5 School parties: €4 Free for children under eight years old (except groups) Bookings: Only for groups, school children and students. It is possible to combine your visit with a visit of the museum "Bastogne Historical Center" at a special rate.
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