Necropolis
By Alain Mijngheer
21 Jul 2009
On the outskirts of a small Belgian town, Tienen, a little church hides a necropolis. Necropolis or city of the dead that is.
In the Summer of 1914 the Belgian Army had a defence-line installed in these parts against the invading German Army. On August 18th, the German infantery attacked this defence-line with succes. The Belgians lost half of their troops and the victims were buried in this church.
Why in this church? This building of the 12th century was in these days a ruïn and not used as such anymore.Instead of giving these soldiers a funeral in the field this was a more fitting spot as a final resting place. The roof and the stones came during the restauration of 1922-28.
There will always be war as long as mankind exists, but it does no harm to remember these 140 men who gave their life for their country on August 18th 1914.
2 responses
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Regenia Brabham gave props (21 Jul 2009):
This is a fantastic story with awesome images. A great tribute to those who fought and died.
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Tim Narraway said (22 Jul 2009):
Delicately handled
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