Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery
The Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery in Nantes, France, stands as a powerful homage to the victims of the transatlantic slave trade and the long struggle for abolition. Inaugurated in 2012, the memorial is situated on the banks of the Loire River, in a city that was once France's largest slave port. The site encompasses a 400-meter-long pathway marked by 2,000 commemorative plaques, each detailing slave ships and their journeys. Visitors can walk along the quayside, reflecting on the engraved texts and quotes from prominent figures in the abolitionist movement. The underground space, accessible by stairs, offers an immersive experience with a chronological presentation of the history of slavery, the slave trade, and its abolition. The memorial serves as a place of remembrance and education, inviting contemplation on the impact of slavery and the importance of human rights. It is a significant site for understanding the city's historical involvement in the slave trade and its commitment to acknowledging this dark chapter in history.