Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War
The Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War is a memorial located in Moscow, Russia, dedicated to the memory of the Soviet soldiers who died in the Soviet–Afghan War (1979-1989). It is situated in Poklonnaya Gora, a hill in western Moscow that was once the site of a major battle during the 1812 French invasion of Russia. The monument was unveiled in 1995 and since then, it has become a place of pilgrimage for veterans, their families, and tourists from all over the world.
History of the Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War
The Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War was erected in 1995 to commemorate those who gave their lives in the war. The monument was built by the sculptor Zurab Tsereteli and is made up of a large marble obelisk, standing at over 25 meters in height. The obelisk is surrounded by a circular wall with seven columns, each representing a different city in the Soviet Union. At the top of the monument is a bronze sculpture of a Soviet soldier, with a gun in his hand and a flag draped over his shoulder.
The monument is located in Poklonnaya Gora, a hill in western Moscow that was the site of a major battle during the 1812 French invasion of Russia. The hill is also home to several other monuments, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Monument to the Conquerors of Space.
The Meaning and Significance of the Monument
The Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War serves as a symbol of the sacrifices of those who died during the Soviet–Afghan War. It is a reminder of the courage and bravery of the soldiers who fought and died in the war, and a way of honoring their memory. The monument is also a symbol of peace and reconciliation, as it stands as a reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of finding a peaceful resolution to conflicts.
Visiting the Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War
The Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War is open to the public seven days a week. The monument is located in Poklonnaya Gora, close to the Victory Park metro station. The entrance to the monument is free of charge.
The monument is a popular tourist destination, and it is visited by thousands of people each year. It is also a popular place of pilgrimage for veterans of the war and their families, who come to pay their respects to the fallen soldiers.
Conclusion
The Monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the Afghan War is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the Soviet–Afghan War. It is a place of pilgrimage for veterans, their families, and tourists from all over the world. The monument is a symbol of peace and reconciliation, and it is a place of remembrance for those who gave their lives in the war.