Architecture and Memory: Commemorative Sites Across Europe

In the year we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, architect Jacques Prins takes a profound look at places of remembrance in his book, Architecture and Memory. Through texts, drawings, and photographs, Prins presents 40 sites across Europe from the post-war period, aiming to convey the feeling of oppression and detachment to the visitor without resorting to reconstruction. His ultimate goal is to allow readers to deeply identify with the past.

Comparative Visuals

In Architecture and Memory, Prins includes several drawings of each site to facilitate easy comparisons. These drawings show the situation of each site during the Second World War and its current state. Through this visual analysis, readers gain insight into the design strategies employed by different architects over time.

Expert Contributions

Renowned Professor Dr. Rob van der Laarse, the Heritage of the War expert at CLUE (Cultural Landscape and Urban Environment),the interdisciplinary research institute for heritage and history at the VU, provides valuable insights throughout the book. Accompanying Dr. Laarse's expertise, Jacques Prins, architect and partner at Inbo, shares his profound knowledge as he takes on the responsibility for the new building of the Nationaal Monument Kamp Amersfoort.

An Engaging Journey

As you immerse yourself in Architecture and Memory, you will discover the power of architecture in preserving memories and evoking emotions. Max Meijer, heritage advisor at TiMe Amsterdam, contributes to the book, adding another layer of expertise to deepen your understanding of the significant role these commemorative sites play in preserving our collective history.

Join Jacques Prins on this captivating journey through time, examining the architectural design strategies employed to uphold the memories of the past.