A Symbol of Remembrance

One year following the launch of the international competition for the Bologna Shoah Memorial, SET Architects, based in Rome, emerged as the winner, as decided by a jury led by Peter Eisenman. On January 27th, 2016, coinciding with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, SET Architects unveiled the completed Memorial.

A Monument of Emotional Power

Constructed in under two months, the Memorial stands as a poignant landmark in the heart of Bologna, situated at the intersection of Via dé Carracci and Ponte Matteotti. Positioned within the vicinity of the newly-installed high-speed train station, the Memorial serves as a focal point, drawing the attention of passers-by and encouraging reflection on the Holocaust.

Design Elements

The Memorial comprises two symmetrical cor-ten steel parallelepiped blocks, each measuring 10×10 meters. Placed adjacent to one another, perpendicular to the existing walls of the square, these blocks create a path that gradually narrows from 1.60 meters to just 80 centimeters, evoking a sense of oppression and confinement.

Symbolism in Structure

Internally, the volumes feature a grid of horizontal and vertical metal sheets intersecting at 90°, forming a series of rectangular empty boxes reminiscent of the cells in concentration camps. The exterior facade, overlooking the city, resembles a blank page symbolizing unwritten history, while slight steel protrusions along the perimeter signify contemporary awareness.

Material Choice and Symbolism

The deliberate use of cor-ten steel, which rusts naturally over time, reflects the passage of time and the enduring legacy of historical events. The path between the blocks, paved with ballast and basalt stone chippings, represents the Judenrampe, a path traversed by prisoners at Auschwitz.

Evoking Emotions through Light

Light plays a crucial role in the Memorial’s ambiance. During the day, natural light creates a contemplative atmosphere, while strategically placed artificial lighting enhances the monument’s magnificence at night. The Memorial transcends conventional rhetoric, prioritizing emotional resonance to narrate the past.

Conclusion

With its profound emotional impact and historical significance, the Bologna Shoah Memorial stands as a testament to remembrance and reflection. SET Architects have succeeded in crafting a monument that speaks to the soul, ensuring that the memories of the past endure in the hearts and minds of future generations.