German Soldiers on Motorcycle in Metz, France, as Population Resumes Church Attendance After Occupation (WWII)

This black and white photograph depicts two German soldiers on a motorcycle in front of a Gothic cathedral. The scene is identified in the archival text as "Alemaues en francia" (Germans in France) and specifically Metz, where the "population of Metz going to church" believes "All anguish and danger are over." Taken during World War II, the image captures the contrast between the occupying military force and the historical, religious significance of the cathedral, suggesting a moment shortly after German occupation when civilian life, such as attending church, was beginning to resume.