Heimkehrerdenkmal, War memorial in Friedland, Germany
The Heimkehrerdenkmal is a war memorial in Friedland consisting of four concrete segments about 28 meters tall that form gate-like structures on Hagenberg hill overlooking the town. Twelve information panels at the site document figures related to German soldiers, prisoners of war, displaced persons, and deportees during World War II.
The foundation stone was laid in 1966 by Chancellor Konrad Adenauer and the memorial was officially inaugurated in 1967 by Minister President Georg Diederichs. It was created in response to the experiences of returnees and displaced persons from the East following the war.
The memorial displays an inscription that reads 'Nations renounce hatred - reconcile yourselves, serve peace - build bridges to one another', visible to visitors as they approach. This message reflects a clear commitment to reconciliation and peaceful coexistence that people can encounter firsthand.
The memorial is clearly visible from the nearby highway and serves as an easily recognized landmark when approaching Friedland. Access is free and the information panels are available year-round.
The memorial was built at a symbolically significant location: Friedland hosted a major transit camp for returnees after the war and became a processing center for displaced persons streams. This history made Friedland the natural choice for this commemorative work.
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