Why Verdun ?

Verdun occupies a exceptional place in national memory, which was embodied in this historic place after the Battle of Verdun 1916. It is from this date that Verdun became an important place in the memory of France and even Europe.

In 1916, one of the bloodiest battles (300,000 dead and 400,000 wounded) made Verdun the symbol of the Great War and of the suffering of the soldiers.

In 1936, 20,000 French and German war veterans outlined their great reconciliation by taking an oath in the same place as the battle.

In 1966, during the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Verdun, the Book of Peace was unveiled at the town hall and signed by the General of Gaulle. Thus, Verdun proclaimed itself the “Captital of Peace”.

On September 22nd 1984, President Mitterrand and Chancelor Kohl came together to reflect, hand in hand, in front of the Ossuary at Douaumont in silence. This highly symbolic gesture symbolises not only the reconciliation, but also the regained friendship between two populations.

Thus, naturally, l’Association du Centre Mondial de la Paix, des Libertés et des Droits de l’Homme (The Association of the World Centre for Peace, Freedom and Human Rights) was created in 1990 in Verdun.

The former Episcopal Palace, after restoration work, has sheltered the permanent exhibition of the Centre since 1994.

Source : G. Domange Apprendre la paix à Verdun (ed. CRDP Lorraine)