Motherland Monument
Kyiv
The Motherland Monument is a monumental titanium statue located in Kyiv, Ukraine, standing 62 meters tall and reaching 102 meters including its base. It is part of the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War, which is housed at the statue's base. Originally conceived as a Soviet war memorial symbolizing victory on the Eastern Front during World War II, the statue was designed initially by Yevgeny Vuchetich and completed by Vasyl Borodai after Vuchetich's death. The figure holds a 16-meter sword and a large shield, which originally bore Soviet symbols but was replaced in 2023 with Ukraine's national coat of arms, the tryzub, reflecting the country's current struggle and identity. The monument's steel framework was produced in Zaporizhzhia, and its construction involved innovative welding techniques to create one of the world's tallest welded sculptures. The site also includes memorial halls honoring thousands of soldiers and workers awarded heroic titles during the war. The monument is a prominent Kyiv landmark, symbolizing both historical memory and national pride, and continues to serve as a venue for commemorations and cultural events.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War website for current opening hours and special events. The best time to visit is during spring and summer when outdoor memorial flower shows are held on the hill beneath the monument. Tickets can be purchased online to avoid queues. Due to safety regulations, access to the upper platforms is restricted, so visitors should verify any available guided tours or viewing opportunities in advance. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups.
Interesting facts
- •The statue is the tallest monumental sculpture in Europe and one of the tallest welded statues worldwide.
- •The sword was shortened by four meters to resolve aerodynamic issues, not to be lower than a religious cross as some claim.
- •The steel used for the statue was manufactured in Zaporizhzhia, combining efforts of local enterprises.
- •The monument can withstand earthquakes up to a magnitude of 9 on the Richter scale.
- •The statue's construction involved 30 kilometers of welded seams, a world-class engineering achievement.
History
The monument was conceived in the 1950s when plans for twin Lenin and Stalin monuments were abandoned.
In the 1970s, sculptor Yevgeny Vuchetich designed the statue to commemorate Soviet victory in World War II, basing the figure on Ukrainian models.
After Vuchetich's death in 1974, Vasyl Borodai took over and modified the design.
Construction began in 1979 and was completed in 1981, with the official opening on Victory Day attended by Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev.
The statue's height was reduced slightly to avoid overshadowing the nearby Kyiv Pechersk Lavra bell tower.
Over time, the monument has undergone restorations and symbolic changes, including the removal of Soviet insignia in 2023 amid the Russo-Ukrainian War.
Place Guide
The Statue1981
The 62-meter titanium figure symbolizes the Motherland holding a sword and shield, representing strength and defense. It is an impressive example of Soviet-era monumental art and engineering.
National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War1981
Located at the statue's base, the museum houses memorial halls with plaques honoring over 11,600 soldiers and 200 home-front workers awarded heroic titles during WWII. It provides extensive exhibitions on Ukraine's role in the war.
Contact
Phone: 044 285 9452
