Lodève war memorial, War memorial in Lodève, France
The memorial features four women and two children standing before a funeral effigy, constructed from patinated Lens stone with an ochre surface finish. Located in the former episcopal park adjacent to the cathedral of Lodève, it serves as the focal point for commemorative gatherings throughout the year.
The memorial was inaugurated in 1930 by Minister Louis Germain-Martin and honors local soldiers who died during World War I and subsequent conflicts. It was created during a period when communities across Europe were establishing monuments to process the immense losses of the war.
The four female figures in the composition represent different social classes and embody the seasons as they tend to a fallen soldier.
The site is located in the former episcopal park, a quiet area next to the cathedral that is easy to reach on foot. Visitors can explore the space at any time of year, with formal commemorative ceremonies taking place on memorial days.
Sculptor Paul Dardé created this work shortly after serving as a stretcher-bearer during World War I. His direct involvement in the conflict shaped the emotional depth and authenticity of this sculpture.
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