On February 13, Dresden will host various commemorative events to honor the victims of World War II, featuring discussions, concerts, and a significant human chain expected to draw around 10,000 participants. Key activities include a moment of silence, a wreath-laying ceremony, and performances of Verdi’s ‘Messa da Requiem’ and Britten’s ‘War Requiem.’ Over 30 gatherings are planned to counter far-right exploitation of the day, with heightened security measures in place. Visitors are advised of potential traffic disruptions.
Commemoration Events in Dresden
On February 13, various locations throughout Dresden, including cemeteries, churches, and the historic old town, will serve as focal points for remembering the devastation caused by World War II. The city emphasizes the importance of ongoing dialogue about this event, encouraging participation in numerous discussions, concerts, and commemorative activities. A significant number of gatherings have been registered to counteract any attempts by far-right groups to appropriate this solemn occasion.
Key Events and Activities
The Semperoper, which was rebuilt after its destruction in 1945, will host a prominent video installation and an exhibition starting Wednesday. The commemoration continues with symphony concerts on Wednesday and Thursday evenings featuring Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Messa da Requiem.’ On Thursday, from 5 PM, a human chain will form in the theater square as part of a solemn remembrance event, with organizers expecting around 10,000 participants. This human chain will encircle the old town, passing notable sites such as the synagogue and Frauenkirche.
The day will begin with a moment of silence at 9 AM, honoring the victims of the bombing. A wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the North Cemetery, while visitors can also light candles in memory of those lost, with a dedicated candle area set up on the Neumarkt.
In the afternoon, a dialogue with students will aim to impart important lessons from the war, stressing the need for vigilance in protecting democracy. Mayor Dirk Hilbert will engage with young people at the town hall, alongside notable guests, to discuss their perspectives on democracy and governance.
Later in the evening, participants are invited to walk the “Dresden Commemorative Path,” which highlights significant locations related to the war’s history. The Dresden Philharmonic will present Benjamin Britten’s ‘War Requiem’ at the Kulturpalast at 7:30 PM, culminating the day’s events.
The evening will conclude with the “Night of Voices,” where the Frauenkirche Foundation will host a gathering to blend remembrance with a message of peace, following the ringing of church bells at 10 PM.
In addition to these main events, over 30 gatherings are planned to oppose historical distortion and the far-right’s exploitation of the commemoration. Security measures are being heightened in anticipation of potential confrontations, as authorities expect significant mobilization from both far-right and far-left groups during this period.
For those traveling to the city, the Dresden police and city administration have issued warnings about potential traffic disruptions and parking restrictions around key areas, urging visitors to consider alternative routes.