“HOW WARS END” – SPECIAL EXHIBITION AT VILLACH CITY MUSEUM SENDS A MESSAGE FOR PEACE

How does a war end – and how does peace begin? This central question is the focus of the new special exhibition “Wie Kriege enden / How wars end” at the Villach City Museum. On the occasion of the commemorative year marking 80 years since the end of World War II, the founding of the Second Republic of Austria, and 30 years of Austria’s EU membership, the exhibition invites visitors – until November 2nd, 2025 – not only to learn more about a history shaped by conflict but also to reflect on its relevance for today.

FROM NAPOLEON TO THE PRESENT DAY

The exhibition highlights six major conflicts in world history – from the Napoleonic Wars to the current war in Ukraine. Villach’s history is explored from both a global perspective and through the personal memories of eleven contemporary witnesses. Their stories reveal how deeply war experiences shape cities and their inhabitants.

INTERACTIVE AND BILINGUAL

The exhibition is presented bilingually – in German and English – and combines traditional exhibition elements with interactive stations. Visitors can actively participate through digital and tactile modules, contribute their own thoughts, and experience history up close.

A reconstruction of an alpine war trench vividly illustrates the harsh reality of trench warfare during World War I. Historical exhibits – including a defused aerial bomb from World War II and a bullet-riddled vehicle from Ukraine – underscore how real and close war has been and still is in Central Europe. They serve as a powerful reminder that peace in Europe cannot be taken for granted.

PEACE BEGINS ON A SMALL SCALE

At the end of the exhibition, an interactive peace lab invites visitors to reflect on their own contributions to a peaceful society. The focus is not on military victories but on humanity, reconciliation, and actively shaping a better future.