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Soldiers marching past the ruined Basilica of Notre-Dame de Brebieres, Albert, with the Golden Virgin or Leaning Virgin on top of its tower, 1917-18 (b/w photo)
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Soldiers marching past the ruined Basilica of Notre-Dame de Brebieres, Albert, with the Golden Virgin or Leaning Virgin on top of its tower, 1917-18 (b/w photo)
2920695 Soldiers marching past the ruined Basilica of Notre-Dame de Brebieres, Albert, with the Golden Virgin or Leaning Virgin on top of its tower, 1917-18 (b/w photo); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: This statue of the Virgin Mary and Child was knocked sideways by German artillery in January 1915 and secured in that position by the French, with a superstition arising that the war would end only when the statue fell. It was finally shot off by British artillery in 1918 as the Germans advanced into Albert during their Spring Offensive.
From an album of 26 photographs, showing scenes from World War One, Western Front (1914-1918), 1917-1918.); © National Army Museum
Media ID 38094792
© © National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
1st World War Albert March Marching Somme Western Front 1914 1918 Wwi Ww One First World War 1914 1918 First World War 1st World War Great War
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This powerful print captures a haunting scene from the First World War, as soldiers march past the ruined Basilica of Notre-Dame de Brebieres in Albert, France. The iconic Golden Virgin or Leaning Virgin statue can be seen precariously perched on top of the tower, a symbol of resilience amidst destruction.
The history behind this image is both tragic and symbolic. The statue of the Virgin Mary and Child was knocked sideways by German artillery in 1915, with French forces securing it in that position to uphold a superstition that the war would only end when it fell. However, as the Germans advanced into Albert during their Spring Offensive in 1918, British artillery finally shot off the statue.
This photograph is part of an album documenting scenes from the Western Front during World War One. It serves as a poignant reminder of the devastation and sacrifice endured during this tumultuous period in history. The juxtaposition of soldiers marching past a damaged church with a leaning statue creates a striking visual contrast that encapsulates the turmoil and tragedy of war.
Through this image, we are transported back to a time of great upheaval and loss, where faith and determination coexisted amidst chaos and destruction.
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