Peter McIntyre, Street scene, Tobruk, 1941-42
Ref: AAAC 898 NCWA 64
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The siege of Tobruk by the German Afrika Korps was the longest siege in British Imperial military history . Beginning on 10 April 1941, the siege lasted for 240 days and was the first major defeat for the Germans in Africa.
Watercolour, 269 x 380mm
Siege of Tobruk, North African Campaign
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This view is of "Italian
This view is of "Italian Square" in the centre of Tobruk. When I lived there in 1963, the church was still a church. When I went back in 2005, it was not in use, although it appears to have been used as a mosque.
I can send a photograph of almost the same view taken in February 2005.
Tobruk has changed almost beyond recognition. The old garrison has been built over and new blocks of apartments sprawl across the surrounding area, making it difficult to trace the old defensive lines (in 1963, they were still very evident). The WW2 cemeteries are, however, still well looked after and provide the main reason for Western visitors to go there. A pity there aren't more attractions, as once they know you're not Italian the local people are very welcoming.