Netherlands Carillon facts for kids
The Netherlands Carillon is a special bell tower located in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington D.C., United States. It was given as a gift to the American people from the people of the Netherlands. This gift shows thanks for the help the United States gave to the Dutch during World War II.
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A Gift of Thanks and Friendship
The Netherlands Carillon was built to say "thank you" to the United States. After World War II, the U.S. helped the Netherlands recover and rebuild. This beautiful carillon was given as a lasting symbol of friendship between the two countries. It reminds everyone of the strong bond they share.
What is a Carillon?
A carillon is a musical instrument made of many bells. These bells are usually found in a tower. A person called a carillonneur plays the bells using a special keyboard. The Netherlands Carillon has 53 bells, each making a different musical note.
Where is the Carillon Located?
The carillon stands tall in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. This important place is near the Potomac River and offers amazing views. From the carillon, you can see famous landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the United States Capitol Building in Washington D.C.
The Carillon's Design and Features
The Netherlands Carillon is a tall, open steel tower. It was designed by a Dutch architect named Joost Boks. The tower is about 127 feet (39 meters) high. It has a modern and simple look.
Special Bells and Lions
When it was first built, the carillon had 49 bells. Each bell was a gift from a different part of the Netherlands. In 1995, a 50th bell was added to celebrate 50 years since the end of World War II. This bell was a gift from the Dutch people to the American people. At the base of the tower, there are two large bronze lions. These lions were created by a Dutch sculptor named Paul Koning. They guard the entrance to the carillon's garden.
A Garden of Tulips
Around the carillon, there is a lovely garden. This garden is planted with thousands of tulips. Tulips are the national flower of the Netherlands. Each spring, the garden bursts with colorful blooms. This makes the carillon a beautiful place to visit, especially in April.
Playing the Carillon
The carillon is played regularly. Sometimes, a carillonneur plays it manually using a keyboard. Other times, it can play automatically. The music from the bells can be heard throughout the cemetery and nearby areas. It adds a peaceful sound to the surroundings.
Images for kids
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Netherlands Carillon Arlington Virginia
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Dutch Prime Minister Wim Kok and President Bill Clinton pose with the Netherlands Carillon's fiftieth bell, February 28, 1995
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The Netherlands Carillon's bronze lions overlooking the garden of tulips.
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The keyboard through which the Netherlands Carillon can be played manually.
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