Volgograd is a city in Russia that played a significant role in the country’s history during the Second World War. This being said, the most popular tourist attractions here are those that depict the city’s significance during World War II.
One of these is Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd – Russia, a memorial dedicated to the heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad.
Location
The memorial Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd – Russia is atop a hill that overlooks the city and the River of Volga. It is within Southern Russia.
Getting There
You can fly in to Volgograd via the international airport located right in the city. Once you get to the city, your best option to reach Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd – Russia is via the Volgograd Metrotram.
There are several stops along the way before you reach the memorial hill.
What to See and Do
Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd – Russia is where you will find a memorial complex dedicated to the heroes who fought to defend the city and the country during the Battle of Stalingrad.
There are various sculptures around the complex, depicting scenes from the battles fought on this hill. The main statue is known as Motherland Calls which sits at the very top of the hill, watching over the city.
The complex is divided into several sections: Square of Heroes, Hall of the Warrior Glory, Square of Sorrow, Ruined Wall and the Military Memorial Cemetery.
A walk around the memorial complex is a deeply moving experience as you see the various sculptures depicting scenes from the battles. The Square of Sorrow is particularly moving as you will see here a statue of a mother cradling a dead soldier in her arms. V.I. Tchuikov, a former commander of the 62nd Army is buried in this square.
Brief History
The Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd – Russia Memorial Complex was constructed between the years 1959 and 1967.
As the plans required large-scale construction, it took several years to complete. Construction began some time in May of the year 1959 and the project was completed on October 15, 1967.
The memorial was built to commemorate the heroism of those who fought to defend the city during the Second World War.
The fiercest of battles occurred here during the latter months of the year 1942 and on the 2nd day of February, in the year 1943; the Battle of Stalingrad officially came to a close.
Cost
There is no entry fee required to gain access to the Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd – Russia memorial.
Other Information
Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd – Russia is open everyday, 24 hours a day so you can come and visit any time that you want. It is recommended however, that you visit early as the memorial complex sees an influx of visitors year-round.
