Victory Monument in Minsk – is a significant monument erected in memory of the Soviet people's victory over Nazi Germany during the Great Patriotic War. It is also dedicated to the heroism of the soldiers of the Soviet Army, partisans, and underground fighters who died for the freedom and independence of their homeland. This majestic obelisk, located at the intersection of Independence Avenue with Zakharov and Kiselev Streets, is an architectural and artistic symbol of Minsk, attracting the attention of both locals and tourists.
History of the Creation of the Victory Monument
The Victory Monument was solemnly opened in 1954. Architects G.V. Zaborsky and U. Karol incorporated into the project the idea of honoring the heroism of millions of people who fought against the fascist invaders. The monument is located on Victory Square, where it forms the focal point of the converging streets and is the dominant architectural feature of the entire ensemble. The semicircular facades of the buildings on the square create a natural frame for the obelisk, enhancing its grandeur.
This monument has become a symbol of victory, the preservation of historical memory, and gratitude to those who gave their lives for the future of the next generations. Its image embodies both the tragic and heroic moments of the war that the Soviet people endured.
Architectural Features of the Monument
The Victory Monument is made in the form of an obelisk about 40 meters high, clad in gray granite. The top of the obelisk is adorned with a massive depiction of the "Victory" Order, made of bronze and smalt, which gives it particular grandeur. The edges of the obelisk are decorated with narrow bands resembling traditional Belarusian ornamentation. This combination of victory symbolism and national elements makes the monument a unique architectural object.
The base of the monument is an expanded stylobate made of black labradorite, on which is placed a bronze sword entwined with a laurel branch – a symbol of triumph and strength. This element was created by sculptor S. Saltykov. The stepped octagonal podium, which serves as the base of the monument, also features cubic stylobates adorned with bronze laurel wreaths. These wreaths symbolize the four fronts that participated in the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi-German forces.
Relief Sculptures on the Pedestal
On the pedestal of the obelisk are four bronze reliefs, each telling about key stages of the Great Patriotic War. These works were created by famous sculptors of the time:
- “May 9, 1945” – a relief by sculptor A. Bembel, dedicated to the day the war ended and symbolizing the joy of victory.
- “The Soviet Army during the Great Patriotic War” – by S. Selikhanov, representing the courage and heroism of Soviet soldiers.
- “Glory to the Fallen Heroes” – a relief by Z. Azgur, honoring the memory of those who gave their lives for freedom.
- “Belarusian Partisans” – a work by A. Glebov, dedicated to the Belarusian partisans who significantly contributed to the fight against the Nazi invaders.