Today, the Dutch celebrate the fact they are living in a free, independent democracy. Forty-six years ago today, the Occupation by Nazi Germany ended officially. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom in general are so easy taken for granted, but they really are precious gifts we should cherish.
Groningen, Great Market (Grote Markt) before World War 2: medieval square with picturesque Dutch houses.
Groningen in April 1945 after the liberation by the Polish and Canadian troops: utter destruction. Most medieval buildings north of the Great Market were completely destroyed and replaced by modern concrete 1960s buildings. 
Let’s hope this will never ever happen again!
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