The Monument of Strength: Soviet War Memorial Treptow
The Second World War Soviet Memorial at Treptow, Berlin is a hammering image of the dedication of the Soviet heroes who laid their lives for World War II. Thus it is one of the major historical monuments which gives tribute to the memory of the people who initiated war and struggled to death against the Nazi policies. Now let’s look at it in greater detail as well as look at its importance.
Historical Background Of the Memorial
The Soviet War Memorial Treptow was erected in the post – World War II period to the memory of the 80,000 Soviet soldiers who died in the liberation of Berlin. Thus, this battle can be regarded as one of the most significant in the history and was the beginning of decline of Nazi Germany. The memorial was built in the years 1946 – 1949 by the Soviet Military Administration in Germany.
Yakov Belopolsky conceived the idea of the memorial and the sculptor Yevgeny Vuchetich laid down the memorial which occupies an area of over One Hundred Thousand square meters and is one of the largest memorial of Soviet Union other than Russia. Because of its location inside Treptower Park it worths to be seen as a landmark and as a memorial.
The Design and Symbolism
It is a work of art, where even the symbolical sense of the erection of the memorial corresponds with the story of a Soviet soldier’s heroism. In the centre of the base camp, there is heart large memorial dedicated to Soviet soldier with a child statue. This statue symbolises the triumph of the Soviet forces and their function in the deliverance of Europe from fascism.
The figure of the soldier he looks forty confident, determined, and protective. The child embodies the principles of the future and thus becomes associated with hope, the triumph over Nazi tyranny and the freedom of future generations.
There are two rows of pylons in front of the statue and two rows of pylons at the side of it. To complete the concept of the monument each pylon demonstrates the provisions of the battle for Berlin and the bravery of the Soviet soldiers. This is believed to have been marked on the pylons with inscriptions normally used to honor the dead soldiers as being important.
Some people may regard it as a place of peace, others may look at it as a place for remembrance.
Treptow is not only a Soviet war memorial but also the abode of peace and remembering in Berlin. The main site of the memorial looks very calm and well-groomed with lots of gardens and trees around which create a silence and restrictive atmosphere to consider.
People can and move along the central axis from the open area to the pylons and towards the statue. On the way, flowers and wreaths are laid at the memorial dedicated to the soldiers and continuing their memory.
Visiting the Memorial
It is quite easy to locate the Soviet War Memorial Treptow. This is located at Treptower Park in the district of Treptow-Köpenick on the eastern side of Berlin in Germany. The memory is located and is open all year round and there are no charges to be paid to access it.
It also important to note that visitors should expect large crowds especially during summer holidays and other form of holidays like Easter holiday. Mornings or weekdays tend to provide less crowds so it’s more appropriate for reflection and mindful walks.
Tips for a Meaningful Visit:
- Take your time: The monument is large and thus requires sufficient time in order to comprehend it or appreciate what the whole structure represents.
- Respectful behavior: Please bear in mind that this memorial remains to be a dwelling for remembrance and honor. When dealing with the authors, it is time to demonstrate respect: refrain from whistling and speaking out loud.
- Photography: Self portraits are permitted, however, refrain from disturbing other individuals purposely and jeopardize the zen of the restroom.
- Learn the history: To make the best of your visit to the site, learn about the historical background of the Battle of Berlin and the part played by the Soviet soldiers in the Second World War. This will complement what you know, and thus help in increasing your value in your appreciation of the memorial.
- Pay homage: It is suggested to leave some flowers, or a small wreath in order to pay respect to the dead soldiers.
- Take your time: The memorial is very large so be sure to give yourself enough time to wonder around whilst taking it all in.
- Respectful behavior: Please understand that this is a memorial in its essence and must be treated accordingly. Keep silent with the body and face and demonstrate the signs of respect by not speaking loudly or laughing.
- Photography: Cameras are permitted provided one does not infringe on other people’s space and does not disrupt the tranquility.
- Learn the history: To better understand the place and all the history behind it, in particular the Battle of Berlin and the part the Soviet soldiers played in World War II. This will give you a better view of what to expect at the memorial thereby making your experience a better one.
- Pay homage: One should pay their respects left at the soldier’s grave through a small token eulage like flowers or a wreath.
- I will take you to this place, the Soviet War memorial Tretpow to learn about the sacrifices that were made by the soviet soldiers and consider what the second world war was about to be about. It symbolizes people’s call for and in support of embracing peace and oneness in the society as well as honoring those who died, fighting against injustice.
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