8 World War Memorials Around the World
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Throughout history, conflicts have taken a heavy toll on societies around the globe. The World Wars shaped the 20th century and left deep marks on the lands where battles were fought and beyond. To honor those who faced the horror and the bravery of these wars, various countries have erected memorials. These monuments serve not only as reminders of the sacrifices made but also as beacons of hope for peace. Let’s explore eight such memorials that stand as silent witnesses to history.
The Motherland Calls, Russia
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Standing proudly on Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd, Russia, The Motherland Calls is one of the most striking memorials in the world. At 91 meters tall, it was the largest statue in the world when completed in 1967, and today, it remains the tallest statue of a woman globally. The monument commemorates the harrowing Battle of Stalingrad, a turning point during the Second World War. Designed by sculptor Yevgeny Vuchetich and engineer Nikolai Nikitin, this remarkable structure symbolizes strength, resilience, and the motherland beckoning its children to defend her.
USS Arizona Memorial, USA
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In the calm waters of Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, lies the USS Arizona Memorial. This site marks where 1,102 sailors and Marines, out of 1,177 aboard, lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Each year, over two million people visit the memorial, which was officially dedicated in 1962, to pay their respects and to look down into the waters where the USS Arizona still rests. It serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of war and the bravery of those who served.
Monument to the Women of World War II, UK
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London’s Whitehall is home to the Monument to the Women of World War II. This memorial, unveiled in 2005 by Queen Elizabeth II, honors the crucial roles women played during the war. Sculpted by John W. Mills, it features 17 sets of clothing and uniforms that signify the various jobs women undertook. These ranged from factory work to nursing, capturing the spirit of a time when women stepped into roles across all aspects of society to support the war effort.
Polish Forces War Memorial, UK
The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, England, commemorates the valiant efforts of fallen servicemen and women from World War I and subsequent conflicts. Among its memorials, a specific tribute to Polish Forces stands out, recognizing their contributions and sacrifices alongside Allied Forces during World War II. The memorial’s design, inspired by four bronze toy soldiers, honors the different branches of the Polish Armed Forces, a moving acknowledgment of Poland’s role and loss during the war.
Alyosha Monument, Bulgaria
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Overlooking Plovdiv from Bunarjik Hill, the Alyosha Monument commemorates Soviet soldiers’ roles during the liberation of Bulgaria. The statue of a Soviet soldier, made from reinforced concrete and standing 11 meters tall, was completed between 1954 and 1957. Despite attempts to remove it, the statue remains a prominent feature of the city’s skyline, protected by those who believe in remembering the past. It’s a reminder of the complex history and the impact of war on nations and their people.
Marine Corps War Memorial, USA
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At the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, the Marine Corps War Memorial captures a moment that has become one of the most enduring images of World War II. This monument depicts the six Marines who raised the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima. The scene, originally captured in a photograph, symbolizes the courage, commitment, and camaraderie of the U.S. Marine Corps and all American forces.
Memorial of the Deportation, France
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Tucked away behind Notre Dame on Île de la Cité in Paris, the Memorial of the Deportation honors the 200,000 people deported from France to German concentration camps during World War II. Inaugurated by Charles de Gaulle in 1962, this memorial’s design by Georges-Henri Pingusson evokes a ship’s prow, guiding visitors down staircases to a secluded area where the weight of history is palpable. It serves as a sobering reminder of the dark times people can never forget.
To Donbass Liberators, Ukraine
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In Donetsk’s Lenin Comsomol Park, the To Donbass Liberators monument pays tribute to military units that liberated the Donbas region during World War II. Its distinctive triangular shape, resembling the sharp edges of Donetsk’s terricons, and the eternal flame at its base, capture the resilient spirit of those who fought. A sculpture featuring a miner and soldiers symbolizes the united front of military and civilian efforts toward liberation, reflecting upon the sacrifices made for freedom.
