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Malines Cathedral damaged by German shell, WW1
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Malines Cathedral damaged by German shell, WW1
Malines (Mechelen) Cathedral, Belgium, damaged by German shell fire, 3 September 1914, at the start of the First World War.
1914
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23100442
© The John Barrett Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
Bomb Bombed Bombing Ceiling Damage Damaged Enemy Malines Mechelen Shell Shelling Stained Start Vaulted
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the devastating impact of the First World War on the historic Malines Cathedral in Belgium. Dated September 1914, at the very beginning of the conflict, this Gothic masterpiece was a casualty of the fierce fighting that engulfed the region. The image reveals the aftermath of a German shell that pierced the cathedral's thick walls, causing extensive damage to the interior. The once vibrant stained glass windows, a hallmark of the cathedral's architectural grandeur, lie shattered on the floor, their colors muted under the dim light that filters in through the gaping hole in the vaulted ceiling. The dark, somber atmosphere is a stark contrast to the usual serene and light-filled interiors of such sacred spaces. The Malines Cathedral, also known as St. Rumbold's Cathedral, is a significant historical and cultural landmark in Mechelen, Belgium. Its construction began in the 13th century and continued over several centuries, making it a testament to the region's rich architectural heritage. The cathedral's survival of various conflicts and wars throughout history was a source of pride for the local community. However, the First World War brought an end to this resilience, leaving the cathedral with scars that would take decades to heal. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the destruction it wreaks on communities and their heritage sites. The image's haunting beauty invites us to reflect on the past and the importance of preserving our cultural and historical treasures for future generations.
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