31,598 hidden stories
Ysselsteyn German War Cemetery, Ysselsteyn (NL)
Fallen of the Second World War lie buried in this cemetery – most of them German soldiers. Looking at the war through different eyes reveals the full scope of the horror.
A sensitive historic site
The Ysselsteyn German War Cemetery is the Netherlands’ largest military burial ground. Nearly 32,000 dead, most of them fallen in the Second World War, lie here. The majority are German soldiers, but there are also Dutch collaborators and foreign war criminals. The cemetery is therefore a highly emotionally charged place.
Behind every gravestone is a story. These stories can tell us a lot about how German and Dutch people experienced the occupation. They concern guilt and innocence, heroes and perpetrators, love and hate, and the vast grey areas in between.
Different eyes
We developed a new visitors centre where people will be able to look at the war through different eyes. By illuminating the experiences of a varied range of people, from anonymous German soldiers to members of the grave service, it reveals the true extent of the horror of the war.
“A milestone and blueprint for our collective remembrance in the 21st century, creating places for learning and remembering, fostering dialogue and understanding among former enemies of war.”
Dirk Backen, De Volkskrant – December 2023
Photos: Stella von Saldern
Credits
Client
Ysselsteyn German War CemeteryContent Design
Studio LouterSpatial & Graphic Design
OPERA AmsterdamFilm Production
Shosho
Rick KloekkeAudio Production
KlevR SounddesignInteractive Media Production
Studio Louter