Völkerschlachtdenkmal

Leipzig, Germany

Monument to the Battle of the Nations Completed in 1913, for 100-year

anniversary of the 1813 Battle Of Leipzig 91 meters (299 feet) tall Said to stand at the site of bloodiest fighting

—where Napoleon ordered retreat of his army

Background

Between the 16-19 of October 1813, Russia, Prussia, Austria, and Sweden battled Napoleon’s French army (which was aided by Polish and Italian troops, as well as German-speakers from the Confederate of the Rhine)

History

Hitler used this monument for meetings during the Third Reich.

GDR government debated demolition, as it was considered to represent staunch nationalism of the German Empire period

Currently under restoration effort, to be completed in 2013

Other History

Bathtub Races

Annual race held in Reflecting Pool Locally sponsored event Many different political and local

organizations enter the race Big community event—always a large crowd Local food and drink vendors sponsor the

event, and lots of children’s activities (clowns, bouncy house, etc.)