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The Liberation Sculpture is a poignant and powerful memorial in Liberation Square, St Helier, Jersey, unveiled on May 9, 1995, by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Jersey's liberation from German occupation during World War II. Created by sculptor Philip Jackson, the bronze sculpture depicts a group of joyous islanders holding aloft a Union Flag, symbolizing the moment of freedom. The design includes symbolic elements: the plinth represents the island, the sculpture itself represents the people, the surrounding moat signifies the sea, and twelve fountains represent the twelve parishes of Jersey.
The sculpture quickly became a popular landmark and a significant gathering place. It stands in Liberation Square, which itself was officially opened as part of the 50th-anniversary celebrations. The main building beside the square served as the German Harbour Office during the Occupation and was where the Union Flag was first raised by Allied troops upon liberation. The creation of the sculpture was not without controversy, as the initial design faced public criticism and was subsequently altered.
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