Poklonnaya Mountain. Poklonnaya Gora - a monument to the victors Creator of the memorial complex on Poklonnaya Gora

Poklonnaya Gora- according to the decision of the USSR Ministry of Culture (03/04/1986), the Central Museum of the Great Patriotic War was formed. On May 9, 1995, ceremonial events and the opening of the museum took place. The top officials of 55 countries who attended the ceremony personally wrote down memorable reviews and wishes on the pages of the Book of Honored Guests.

Interesting fact. President of the United States of America Bill Clinton noted the greatness of the Russian people, their heroism, and emphasized the importance of the Museum on Poklonnaya Hill as historical evidence, as a source of Russian wisdom.

Sights of Poklonnaya Gora

The memorial historical ensemble Poklonnaya Gora (another name for Victory Park) perpetuates the memory of those who died or went missing in 1941-1945.

Interesting fact. The gentle hill between the beds of the Setun and Filka rivers was known as a place where travelers stopped to take in the panorama of the capital of the Russian state, as well as to worship the church domes of Moscow. This is where the origin of the name “Poklonnaya” comes from. Here they welcomed welcome guests: high-ranking ambassadors and princes. The enemies were driven away.

In 1812, Napoleon, standing on the mountain, did not receive the keys from the residents of Moscow.

In 1941-1945, after casting a farewell glance from Poklonnaya Hill, the defenders of the Motherland left to fight the fascists. Thus, a historically significant place became the symbolic beginning of the heroic liberation from the invaders.

Triumphal Arch on Poklonnaya Hill

The triumphal gate opens the way for visitors walking towards Victory Park. Initial version The arch, made of wood (1814), was created after the victorious end of the war with Napoleonic troops in 1812. The location of the Arch was Tverskaya Zastava Square.

In 1936 architectural structure was dismantled.

1966-1968. A copy of the neoclassical arch was built and occupies its historical place.

Alleys of the park complex

Along the Central Alley leading to the main Monument, there are granite slabs. Each plate is dedicated to a specific year of the war period. On the left side stands a bronze colonnade of 15 steles, symbolizing 10 front lines, 3 flotillas, partisan movement, a feat of home front workers.

On the right is a fountain composition consisting of 5 hydrocascades. The mechanism of each fountain shoots water upward in 45 directions. Their total number 225 reflects the weekly duration of the war period. In the evenings, the red lighting of the fountains enhances the drama, associating with the blood of fallen soldiers.

Alleys radiate from the Square. Their names (alleys of Tankers, Signalmen, Artillerymen, Sailors, Military Engineers, etc.) correspond to representatives of various branches of the military.

Alleys complement the park network of roads, dedicated to war, labor feats, peace, to young heroes and veterans.

Victory Monument on Poklonnaya Hill

The central part of the historical memorial, Victory Square, is decorated with the Victory Monument (1995). This steel obelisk depicts a triangular bayonet, a symbol of battle. The surface of the Monument is covered with bronze bas-reliefs depicting military scenes. The names of the hero cities are depicted in golden letters.

Interesting fact. The creators of the memorial ensemble gave great value historical figures, reflecting them according to the architectural design: 141.8 meters in height of the monument, 1418 fountains in the park area correspond to the number of days during which the Great Patriotic War lasted.

The creators of the obelisk were architects L.V. Vavakin, V. M. Budaev. The sculptural parts were made by Zurab Tsereteli.

A sculptural ensemble made of bronze weighing 25 tons is attached to the stele at a height of 104 meters. The composition depicts the divine Nike with a crown in her hands. Winged cupids on the sides trumpet victorious marches.

At the pedestal of the monument, the sculpture of St. George the Victorious symbolizes the destruction of evil forces, depicted by the appearance of a snake pierced by a spear.

Museum of the Great Patriotic War Memorial Poklonnaya Gora

The memorial museum located on the square has 50 collections and 50,000 exhibits. Among the historical sites:

  • samples military weapons, technical means of the war period;
  • orders, medals, other awards;
  • personal belongings of famous military commanders;
  • belongings of privates and officers;
  • trophy specimens;
  • letters from those who defended the Fatherland;
  • uniform items;
  • collection of monetary occupation signs.

Interesting fact. A museum is a place where a symbolic relic is stored, personifying a triumphal event, a banner that soviet soldiers hoisted over the Reichstag building on April 30, 1945.

Hall of Generals

This room presents a gallery row of sculptural portraits awarded the order Victory. This award of the highest military level was approved in accordance with the Decree of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR (11/8/1943). Bronze busts of prominent representatives of the command structure were made by Zurab Tsereteli. Shields with images of orders of war are located around the perimeter of the room.

Among the decoration objects of the hall there is a sword made of valuable steel by Zlatoust masters, a shield, a scabbard inlaid with semi-precious stones of the Ural Mountains.

Hall of Fame

The main hall is dedicated to the Heroes Soviet Union, Heroes of Russia. Surnames and names are carved on the white surface of marble supports located along the walls. At the entrance portal there are busts of military pilots A. I. Pokryshkin and I. N. Kozhedub, awarded the title of Hero three times.

The central place is occupied by the sculptural image of the “Victorious Soldier”, 10 meters high (sculptor V.I. Znoba). A sword made by Tula gunsmiths is placed on a granite pedestal.

At the top are bas-relief coats of arms of heroic cities. The ceiling is decorated with the image of the Order of Victory.

Hall of Memory and Sorrow

Memories of almost 27 million who did not return from the war are immortalized by a white marble composition called “Sorrow” (the creator of the sculpture is L. Kerbel).

Wall surfaces and floors are decorated with marble slabs in red and black colors. The inclined platforms are covered with red fabric material.

The ceiling hanging decor, which consists of brass chains decorated with crystals, symbolizes tears for the fallen heroes.

Sadness and mourning are emphasized by the lighting features and minor musical accompaniment: wall lighting fixtures shaped like candles, Mozart’s “Requiem.”

Interesting fact. Under glass are stored 385 volumes of the Book of Memory, containing information about those killed and missing during the battles. Formed since 1995 electronic version Books of Memory containing information at the regional and federal levels. The goals of the departments involved in maintaining the electronic Name Catalog, the All-Russian Book of Memory are to preserve the names of the dead, to assist in searching for information about unknown fates at the request of relatives and organizations.

Museum of Military Equipment on Poklonnaya Gora

Open area military equipment presents 300 copies of technical equipment and weapons used during the Second World War. A separate section is devoted to each branch of the Armed Forces of the Soviet Army.

The “Artillery” exposition provides visitors with the opportunity to see the “Katyusha” made famous by the song, and numerous artillery systems.

The “Armored Vehicles” section amazes with the power of tanks, self-propelled artillery and anti-aircraft installations. There are samples of equipment supplied by the Allies under Lend-Lease.

The exhibition part “Railway Equipment” demonstrates unique exhibits - two armored platforms, part of the 1917 “Krasnovostochnik” armored train, an ambulance, freight cars, and the “Destroyed Railway Bridge” installation.

Interesting fact. In the second half of 1943, the Germans, instead of exploding the railway track, used a track destroyer called “Hook”. Its exact copy is contained among the museum exhibits.

The “Military Highway”, located parallel to the “Railway Equipment”, has at its disposal GAZ-AA military vehicles, a Ford GPA amphibian, and a 1939 BMW.

The territory of the “Engineering and fortification structures” sector demonstrates a network of trenches, trenches, dugouts, and dugouts.

Aviation equipment is represented by both genuine copies (Il-4, U-2, La-5, Bell P-63 “Kingcobra”, Hawker “Hurricano”), and full-scale copies (Yak-3, Il-2, I-16, I-15 bis).

The water area of ​​the artificial reservoir is used to demonstrate ship models; ship artillery towers, submarine conning towers, torpedoes, and bombs are installed along the banks. In the pond, viewers can see the model torpedo boat TK-131 "Riverman of the Angara".

Interesting fact. The conning tower of the Baltic Fleet submarine Shch-307, which was awarded the Order of the Red Banner for military merits, is on display, and its commander M.S. Kalinin became a Hero of the Soviet Union.

The exhibition on the first floor contains 6 dioramas telling about 6 significant military operations:

  • December 1941, offensive Soviet Army near Moscow;
  • Battle of Stalingrad. Joining fronts;
  • Siege Leningrad;
  • Battle of Kursk;
  • Crossing of the Dnieper;
  • Capture of Berlin.

The exhibition specificity is the presence of:

  • originals of rare photographs,
  • military maps, archival documents,
  • audio, video materials that preserved the chronicle of military events.

Between the museum building and the Monument is on fire Eternal Flame. It was lit in April 2010 in honor of the 65th anniversary of the Great May Events.

Three park attractions are recognized as symbols of the multinationality of the defenders of the Fatherland and their different religions:

  • Church of St. George the Victorious (1993), which houses the relics of the holy great martyr;
  • Memorial Mosque (1997), reminiscent of the feat of warriors who professed Islam;
  • Synagogue (1998), the exhibition of which testifies to the tragedy of the Jewish people;
  • A chapel built in memory of Spanish volunteers who fought on the fronts of the Great Patriotic War (2003).

For nature lovers, the largest flower clock according to the Guinness Book of Records is of interest. 8 thousand colors are united by a dial circle with a 10-meter diameter. The time is shown by arrows 3.5 and 4.5 meters long.

How to get to Poklonnaya Gora

Visitors to the memorial complex can use several options to get to Poklonnaya Gora.

  • The Metropolitan is the most convenient option. Take the blue line (Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya) to get to the Park Pobedy station. When exiting, follow the signs. When leaving the station, you need to go left. If you get off at Kutuzovskaya station on the Filevskaya line, you will need to walk about 5 minutes to the Arc de Triomphe.
  • By bus routes No. 157, No. 205 you need to go to the Poklonnaya Gora stop.
  • An electric train departing from Kievsky Station requires traveling to the Moscow-Sortirovochnaya point.
  • Those wishing to get there by car should drive along Kutuzovsky Prospekt (along the odd side). The park will be visible between General Ermolov and Minsk streets. Free parking on Mosfilmovskaya Street near the mosque.

Those wishing to visit the Central Museum must take into account a number of features:

  • on Mondays the attraction is closed to visitors;
  • open areas and exhibitions are open from 11.00 to 18.30;
  • The ticket office closes and admission to visitors is terminated 30 minutes before the official closing.

Museum opening hours

Purchasing entrance tickets

Important. Free admission is provided to children under 16 years of age.

The official website of the Museum of the Great Patriotic War on Poklonnaya Hill provides the opportunity to purchase a ticket and select an excursion program online.

Sightseeing tours “Great Feat of the People”, “Dioramas”, “Weapons of Victory” last 1 hour 50 minutes.

Thematic excursion programs have been developed:

  • “From Moscow to Berlin” (includes excursions “The Fire of Stalingrad”, “Moscow is behind us”, “Flags over Berlin”, “Dnieper - the River of Heroes”);
  • “History for everyone” (includes the topics “Childhood scorched by war”, “Get up, huge country”, “If there is war tomorrow”, “Lend-Lease: opinions, myths, historical truth”, “Crimes of Nazism”, “Russian Orthodox Church during the war years");
  • “The saved world remembers...” (“Battles that brought victory”).

The cost for groups of 1-4 people is the same as the cost of sightseeing tours. For groups of 5-35 people the cost is as follows:

  • foreign tourists - 500 RUR.,
  • main contingent - 300 RUR.,
  • preferential contingent - 250 RUR.

A wide range of interactive holiday programs are offered to children.

Program name Age category Number of people Duration (hour) Price
Forced march 9+ 15-30 2,5 900 RUR
Dugout, historical journey 8+ 15-30 2 700 RUR
The Legend of Russian Heroes 6+ 10-25 2 400 RUR
Combat vacation 6+ 10-25 3,5 800 RUR
Scouts, quest 6+ 10-30 1,5 400 RUR
Five redoubts. Birthday, holiday quest 7+ 10-30 1,5 1000 RUR
The glory of the Russian bayonet will never fade 12+ 10-30 1,5 400 RUR
We won 6+ 10-30 1,5 400 RUR
Along partisan paths 6+ 10-30 1,5 400 RUR
Our squad 12+ 10-30 1,5 400 RUR

Groups of 1-25 people (category 7+) can take part in excursion programs for free Educational project"Roads of Victory" (main building).

May 9 on Poklonnaya Hill

Traditionally, the Central Museum of Poklonnaya Gora is one of the main venues for celebrating the anniversary of the victory over fascist invaders. A number of events are being held:

  • All-Russian action "St. George's Ribbon"
  • Excursion program for Suvorov students, cadets, students of the Moscow University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia,
  • Show documentaries, performances,
  • Gala concert “Songs Great Victory»,
  • Festival of Patriotic Song “Heirs of the Winners”,
  • Concert of amateur art groups.

Since 2015, on the day of St. George the Victorious (May 6), Poklonnaya Hill has become the venue for a parade of cadets. Every year the parade is dedicated to the Anniversary of the Great Victory, as well as to the development of the cadet movement:

  • 2015 - diversity of forms of cadet education,
  • 2016 - the unity of the cadet movement,
  • 2017 - openness and accessibility of the cadet movement.

45 parade units march in a solemn march, watched by veterans, home front workers, and heroes of the Fatherland among 20 thousand participants. 2.5 thousand cadets, passing in formation, salute and lay flowers in front of the eternal flame of Glory. The final point is the launching of white doves of peace.

Not only by holidays, every day the park complex is recognized as a favorite vacation spot for adults and children. A virtual cinema has been opened and a racing track is operating. There are special paths throughout the park for cyclists, skateboarders, and roller skaters. Sports equipment rental services are provided. Vacationers can visit a cozy cafe.

The territory of the park was first mentioned in the “Chronicle of Bykhovets” in 1368. Historians also claim that in 1612 Hetman Zholkiewski stayed here. The purpose of his visit was to meet the Polish delegation. It is also known that in the fall of 1812, Napoleon was waiting here for the capital’s boyars, who were supposed to hand him the keys to the Kremlin.

As for the opening of the memorial zone, this idea was first voiced by the architect Chernikhov. But his idea did not immediately become a reality. The first sculptural composition was erected here only in 1958. This is a sign decorated with an inscription about the construction of a memorial in honor of the triumph. In the coming months, a park area was created around it, and monuments and buildings began to be erected during the reign of Brezhnev. The entire territory of the complex was officially opened on May 9, 1995.

What is important to know about the park

Victory Park, located next to Poklonnaya Gora, is a whole system of alleys decorated with sculptures and temples. The central part is the main alley, called “Years of War”. It includes five terraces, symbolizing 5 years of battle. And the number of days of the war is indicated by the number of fountains, of which there are exactly 1418. As soon as it gets dark, the red lights turn on here, thanks to which Muscovites call the fountains “bloody”.

In addition to a large number of monuments and sculptures, the park is distinguished by beautiful nature with well-groomed flower beds and lawns. Some of them are laid out in the form of ribbons, inscriptions and clocks. In addition to the park alleys, Poklonnaya Gora is also considered a favorite place for visitors. Despite the fact that earlier from its top there was a view of the main attractions of Moscow, which were later blocked by high-rise buildings, today you can also enjoy a picturesque view from here.

Not long ago, a tradition developed in the capital according to which newlyweds come here on their wedding day to lay flowers at the monuments. If you are lucky enough to be here during the peak wedding season, then you will definitely appreciate the indescribable atmosphere of the celebration, when dozens of young couples stroll along the alleys of the park with bouquets.

The most varied leisure activities are possible on the territory of the memorial complex. For example, its landscaped alleys are great for skateboarding or cycling. In spring and summer, young people from different parts of Moscow come here to demonstrate their skills in extreme sports.

Main attractions of the park

Museum of the Great Patriotic War

This exposition is recognized as the central dominant of the park. It includes two exhibitions: military history, where you can see a complete chronicle of the war years, and art. The key element of the museum is a diorama consisting of 6 compositions. Each of them is dedicated to the decisive battle of the war.

In addition to the museum complex, the exhibition also covers part of the park area. There is a huge exhibition of military equipment right in the open air. Here you will see a variety of models of domestic tanks, aircraft, self-propelled guns, combat vehicles of Germany and other countries. There are more than 300 exhibits in total.

Victory Monument

The main square of the park is decorated a majestic monument, reaching 141.8 meters in height. This figure symbolically reflects 1418 days of the victorious battle. At an altitude of 100 meters there is a bronze sculpture of the ancient Greek goddess of victory Nike surrounded by angels. And the granite base of the monument is guarded by St. George the Victorious, piercing a snake with a weapon.

Temple of St. George the Victorious

Another important landmark of the complex, built next to it on May 9, 1994. It is interesting that the temple was built entirely with municipal funds, and its architectural design belonged to the master Polyansky. The illumination of the landmark took place on May 6, 1995, by the famous capital Patriarch Alexei II.

Today architectural style The temple is classified as postmodernism, although thanks to its decor the shrine is more reminiscent of an example of ancient Russian architecture. Besides the impressive appearance, the temple is also interesting for its interior design. In addition to icons of saints, here you can see military attributes and a reminder fallen soldiers. The main relic of the shrine is considered to be the relics of the Great Martyr George.

This temple is one of the main symbols of the memorial complex. Much of the triumph of the Russian army is associated with the name of St. George the Victorious, the patron saint of war.

Monument "Tragedy of the People"

The architectural monument was built in 1997 in honor of the victims of the genocide. Its author was the famous sculptor Zurab Tsereteli. At first glance, the monument discourages visitors, because it depicts naked figures with shaved heads. In this way, the author tried to convey the idea that people are in line to die.

Memorial Mosque

Some visitors to the park are surprised to see a Muslim mosque on its territory. This shrine was erected in 1997 in honor of Muslim soldiers who died in the war.

Despite the fact that the building is built from reinforced concrete structures, thanks to the red decorative brick and white stone it looks quite sophisticated. The main entrance to the shrine is decorated high portal. On the left side of it you can see a brass board decorated with a Russian inscription. Opposite you can see the same inscription, but only on Arabic. Here you can read the date and reason for the opening of the mosque.

The halls of the temple are painted with ornaments and decorated with snow-white carvings. The key element of the decor is a huge crystal chandelier, shaped like a crescent.

Holocaust Memorial Synagogue and Museum

This temple was erected in honor of the 6 million Jews who died. Thus, Russia expressed sympathy and respect for the Jewish people, who were massacred during the war.

Designed by architects Zarkhi and Budaev, today the building is recognized as one of the best examples of synagogue architecture. The interior decoration of the shrine, designed in a solemn and austere palette, is considered no less impressive.

Looking into the synagogue, you will see an exhibition dedicated to the history of the Jewish nation, which settled in Russia. Here you can learn about the contribution of Jews to the culture and economy of Russia. Among the exhibits, the most noteworthy are various ritual attributes, including bells, crowns, candlesticks, ceremonial cups, silver jewelry and much more.

Monument to Internationalist Soldiers

One of the new monuments, erected on December 27, 2004. This date is associated with the 25th anniversary of the appearance Russian troops on the territory of Afghanistan. The monument depicts a huge bronze figure of a soldier holding a weapon in his hands.

Please note. If you are traveling through the streets of the capital for the first time, we recommend visiting Victory Park during one of the sightseeing tours presented on the Sputnik portal. In just a few hours you will see the main symbols of Moscow and learn many interesting facts from the life of the city.

In general, Victory Park is not only an excellent opportunity to relax with loved ones among the picturesque alleys, but also a reason not to forget about important stages of the country’s history.

How to get there

Victory Park is surrounded by more than 4 streets. On one side it intersects with Kutuzovsky Prospekt, on the western part it is surrounded by Minskaya Street, on the eastern part by Fonchenko Brothers Street, and in the south it borders the railway station. Part of the recreation area is occupied by Poklonnaya Gora, next to which there are 2 metro stations: “Minskaya” and “Park Pobedy”.

The most convenient way to get to the complex will be by metro. From the stops listed above, getting here on foot is not difficult. A 140-meter stele, which is visible from afar, will serve as a guide.

You can also get to Victory Park by car. Passage is allowed to the main and western entrances. If you are planning a route in a navigator, then you can set General Ermolov Street 4 or Minskaya Street as the final destination.

Poklonnaya Hill and Victory Park located on it are among the main attractions of the capital. Here, next to Kutuzovsky Prospekt, residents of the huge metropolis like to relax, coming with their children, making appointments and appointments.

Guests of the capital definitely come here to see with their own eyes historical monuments testifying to the historical victories of the Russian people in military battles. At this place, sometimes not only the fate of the capital, but also the whole of Great Rus' was decided.

And here are tips on where you can relax in the Moscow region -.

Poklonnaya Gora - the history of the creation of the memorial

Legends tell that on this, one of the seven, Moscow hills, it was customary for all guests and local residents. It was Poklonnaya Hill that opened up the entire delightful panorama of the city. Having looked at the city, everyone made a deep bow to him, which has been a tradition for a long time. On this hill they allegedly met important people and visitors arriving in the capital on state affairs.

According to another version, travelers who at all times sought to explore the world with their own eyes always climbed this gentle hill to see Moscow and its surroundings at the same time. Admiring the view of the beautiful city, they paid their respects to it. So the mountain, which had been located away from the city for a long time, began to be called Poklonnaya.

The city grew and over time the gentle hill became part of the city itself and residential buildings, various buildings and roads appeared on its slopes. So on the eastern side in the middle of the last century there was a road, on both sides of which the construction of the famous Kutuzovsky Avenue began.

IN last decades 20th century on Poklonnaya Hill, work resumed on the arrangement of a memorial complex - Victory Park in Velikaya Patriotic War 1941-1945 Several decades have passed since the authorities made the official decision to build a memorial here, since it was planned to begin work almost immediately after the war.

However, it was necessary to restore the country from destruction, so the matter was postponed for a long time, although the park itself was founded by the townspeople in 1958. It was then that a sign was installed stating that a monument dedicated to the victory of the people in the Great Patriotic War would be built here.

Over all these years, Muscovites and residents across Russia have collected almost 200 million rubles, which were invested in the improvement of the park area and the improvement of the entire designated area. In addition, additional money was allocated from the city and state budgets.

The opening of Victory Park occurred only during special occasions, associated with the 50th anniversary of the Victory over Nazi Germany, in early May 1995.

Victory Park today

The huge Victory Park was created with a deep meaning to convey to subsequent generations the importance of the victories of the Russian people in defending the Motherland. In the memorial complex, almost every detail has a special meaning. Thus, the alley, called “Years of War,” is divided into five terraces. There are 1,418 fountains installed throughout the entire park - this is how many days a Russian soldier stood to defend the Motherland.

Patriotic War of 1812

The memorial on Poklonnaya Hill is dedicated to another victory of the people against external conquerors. Back in 1942, architect J. Chernikhovsky proposed erecting a monument here to the heroic deeds of the people in the Patriotic War of 1812. The idea was supported, but postponed until after the war with Nazi Germany.

Despite difficult times, Poklonnaya Hill was defeated natural park As a place of rest for the townspeople, city folk festivals were held here. And only in 1968, the Arc de Triomphe was built in the park, reminiscent of the liberation of Russia from Napoleonic army in 1812.

Museum of Glory on Poklonnaya Hill

The Museum of Glory was created on Poklonnaya Hill on the initiative of veterans who took part in the Great Patriotic War. The museum's fund includes more than 50,000 exhibits. Everything that relates to those times when people fought on the fronts and helped the country in the rear is collected here. Military equipment, small arms and ammunition from the times of two Patriotic Wars are on display.

Thematic exhibitions tell about the lives of soldiers and military leaders, politicians and ordinary people. Here you can read letters from the front, see awards, leaflets, documents and other exhibits telling about the war.

The most significant place of the museum is the Hall of Fame. In the center, the figure of the victorious Soldier rises above the visitors, and on the walls you can read the names of all more than 11 thousand heroes of the USSR.

This monument was erected on the eve of the Day of Remembrance and Sorrow in 2013. The initiative to establish a monument to a dog participating on the battlefield also belongs to veterans. During the war, according to historians, more than 60 thousand dogs performed hard service next to soldiers on the battlefields.

The dogs pulled the wounded out of the fire, brought in shells, and found mines and explosive devices. Dogs taking part in the front marched alongside the soldiers in the 1945 victory parade. Researchers claim that dogs saved the lives of more than 700 thousand wounded soldiers.

Religious and places of worship

Religion is represented on Poklonnaya Hill by two religious buildings. Orthodox Church George the Victorious was consecrated at the end of the last century by Alexy II, Patriarch of All Rus'. The synagogue was installed here a little later, and exhibitions and numerous exhibits of the museum, located on the first floor of the religious building, tell about the torment of the Jewish people and the Holocaust.

Monument to soldiers of the First World War

On August 1, 2014, another monument was opened in Victory Park. The Russian Military Historical Society held a number of events and raised funds for the installation of a sculpture dedicated to the memory of soldiers who took part in the First World War. The event was timed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of those tragic events.

The sculptor A. Kovalchuk tried to connect in a single composition the memory of the fearless soldier - the Knight of St. George, with the flag of Russia. Thus, according to the author, he created a collective image of a warrior who fulfilled his duty with honor on the battlefields, defending his homeland at all times from invaders.

Museum design

1942

For the first time, the idea of ​​​​the need to create a memorial to perpetuate the feat of the people in the Great Patriotic War arose at a time when the main victorious battles were still ahead. In 1942, the Union of Architects of the USSR announced a competition for the best design of a memorial complex for the future Victory. Several projects were put forward for the competition, which ended in April 1943. Among the most interesting are the museum dedicated to the Great Patriotic War on Red Square (architect L.V. Rudnev), the triumphal arch (architect A.G. Mordvinov), “Pantheon of the Great Patriotic War” (architect Ya.G. Chernikhov). The project of the architect Rudnev won, in which Chernikhov’s proposals for filling the museum were taken into account - in addition to the exhibition halls, the project included art gallery, War Heroes halls, cinema halls.

1955

Unfortunately, this project was not implemented, and even the idea of ​​​​creating a special museum was abandoned for many years. The concept of creating a Victory Monument was brought to the fore. So, in 1955, Marshal of the Soviet Union G.K. Zhukov sends a letter to the CPSU Central Committee in which he speaks of the need to erect a majestic monument in Moscow or the Moscow region to commemorate the world-historical victory Soviet people and his army in the Great Patriotic War.

1957

In May 1957, the Presidium of the CPSU Central Committee adopted a resolution “On the construction of the Victory Monument in Moscow,” in which it was planned to erect a Victory Monument on Poklonnaya Hill on the territory of the designed park before 1960.

1958

On February 23, 1958, in the presence of residents and guests of the capital, a granite foundation stone was installed, a meeting and parade of troops of the Moscow garrison took place. The solemn ceremony was attended by outstanding military leaders, veterans of the Great Patriotic War, including Marshals of the Soviet Union S.M. Budyonny, I.S. Konev, R.Ya. Malinovsky. In 1957 and 1958, two competitions were held for the best project, although none of the proposed options was chosen.

1961

In 1961, Victory Park was founded on Poklonnaya Hill. Although almost thirty years remained before the start of large-scale work on the creation of the memorial complex, the very idea of ​​perpetuating the feat of the Soviet people was not forgotten.

Construction of the museum

1979

In 1979, a competition was held again, at which four versions of the Victory Monument were presented. In 1980, the project of a group of authors headed by sculptor, President of the USSR Academy of Arts N.V. was recognized as the best. Tomsk and People's Architect of the USSR A.T. Polyansky.

1983

In 1983, the Politburo of the CPSU Central Committee approved project proposals that included the creation of a Memorial Park, the Main Victory Monument and the Central Museum of the Great Patriotic War with the Hall of Fame on Poklonnaya Hill. In the same year, the Decree of the Council of Ministers of the USSR “On the construction in Moscow of a monument to the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War” was issued. The construction of the memorial complex, in accordance with this resolution, began in 1985.

In order to give future construction special social and moral significance, the Soviet government decided to finance the construction of the facility not from the state budget, but from public money. By the way, a similar tradition existed in Russian Empire- on the centenary of the Patriotic War of 1812, funds were collected in the country for the creation of a museum and monuments erected on the Borodino field.

At the end of the 1980s, a fundraiser was announced for the creation of a Victory memorial complex. The whole country worked on cleanup days, donating the money they earned for the construction of a memorial and museum dedicated to the heroic and tragic period in the history of the Motherland.

1986

The museum on Poklonnaya Hill was created on March 4, 1986 on the basis of Order No. 86 of the USSR Ministry of Culture “On the creation of the Central Museum of the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945.” From the very beginning, it was planned as an object of special significance - a scientific, educational and scientific-methodological center on the history of the Great Patriotic War, the main state repository of all relics and materials of those years, the main place of military-patriotic work with the population.

The first director of the institution was a veteran of the Great Patriotic War, Major General Leonid Kasyanovich Kotlyar. Among the first employees were 53 veterans of the Great Patriotic War. The staff of the newly formed museum monitored the quality of the work performed, maintained comprehensive contacts with war and labor veterans, with search groups, conducted the scientific development of the future exhibition and organized the collection of exhibits.

By the start of construction, 194 million rubles had been collected in a special account. The total estimated cost of creating the memorial complex was 212.6 million rubles. Completion of construction was scheduled for 1989.

At first, the work began intensively, but then stopped due to the turbulent socio-political processes and economic changes that took place in our country. At the same time, numerous discussions broke out in society about the museum - its necessity, purpose, location, etc. There were even proposals to dismantle already built structures.

The country's leadership has repeatedly made decisions and resolutions to speed up construction. However, by 1991, the memorial complex had not been erected; its facilities were mothballed.

Opening of the museum

1994

New stage in the life of the museum came in connection with preparations for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Victory. In 1994, active construction resumed. People's Artist of Russia Z.K. was appointed artistic director of the project of the Central Museum of the Great Patriotic War. Tsereteli, chief architect - V.M. Budaev, chief engineer of the complex - V.Sh. Suladze.

The museum complex on Poklonnaya Gora began its life as individual blocks were ready, and temporary military-historical exhibitions opened. The first exhibition - “Defenders of the Fatherland” - was opened in 1993 in the Art Gallery of the museum under construction. On May 8, 1994, although construction work was still ongoing, President of the Russian Federation B.N. Yeltsin and Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus' Alexy II solemnly opened the Hall of Glory and the Hall of Memory and Sorrow, as well as a temporary exhibition in the Guards Halls, which became the predecessor of the main military-historical exhibition (although half of the exhibits were received for temporary use from other museums).

1995

The official opening of the museum took place on May 9, 1995. 55 delegations from various countries arrived at this celebration, whose leaders left entries in the Book of Honorable Guests.

US President Bill Clinton: “The museum is a historical witness to the war that cannot lie. The museum is raising new heroes who will become heirs to the glory and greatness of the country, an endless source of wisdom. The museum shows that a great nation has great people.”

British Prime Minister John Major: “This is the most wonderful museum, opened on the most significant day.”

The military parade dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the Victory that year was held not only, as usual, on Red Square, but also on Poklonnaya Hill. 10 thousand military personnel marched in front of the Victory Monument and the museum Russian army, 330 units of military equipment, 53 aircraft and 26 helicopters flew in the sky. For the first time, the MIG-31 fighter-interceptor took part in the aerial part of the parade. In the evening, a grand fireworks display was given on Poklonnaya Hill, and the facade of the museum became a screen on which the best films about the war, photographs of battles and veterans were projected.

2017

Since then memorable day More than 20 years have passed.

June 22, 2017 Federal State budgetary institution culture "Central Museum of the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945" received a new abbreviated official name - the Victory Museum.

Today the Victory Museum is one of the leading military-historical museums in the world, an all-Russian scientific-historical and organizational-methodological center on the topics of the Second World War and the Great Patriotic War.

Here, on Poklonnaya Hill, on October 24, 1508, the envoys were met Crimean Khan Mengli-Gireya. Here the Moscow delegation met with Hetman Zholkevich to give royal throne Polish prince Vladislav. Napoleon's advisers probably told him about this - so he decided to wait for the delegation with the keys to Poklonnaya Hill. From here he saw the city for the first time.

But the delight was short-lived: instead of the keys to the city, Napoleon was waiting for a fire.

Also, some researchers associate the name of the mountain with a bow - a payment collected when traveling or temporarily staying in Moscow.

Previously, Poklonnaya Hill was double-headed, but the eastern crown was gradually torn down, and on the western there is a stele with Nike. Now on the mountain there is a memorial complex for Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

The architect Ya. Chernikhov suggested erecting a monument here back in 1942. He wanted to dedicate it to the heroism of the people in the Patriotic War of 1812. The idea was supported, but postponed until the end of the war with Germany. And on February 23, 1958, a memorial granite sign appeared on Poklonnaya Hill with the inscription: A monument to the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945 will be built here. At the same time, trees were planted around and Victory Park was laid out.

In the 1970-80s, 194 million rubles were collected for the construction of the monument. Subsequently, funds were allocated by the state and the Moscow government. 135 hectares of land were allocated for the construction of the complex. They offered different options for the monument - a red banner on the obelisk, a single mother with her son in the regiment, disabled people who returned from the war on a T-34 tank... But none were accepted. Only on the 50th anniversary of the Victory, on May 9, 1995, the Victory Memorial Complex was opened.

The main alley “Years of War” consists of five terraces, symbolizing 5 years of war. There were 1,418 fountains built over the five water surfaces of Poklonnaya Gora—the number of days the war lasted.

In the center of the Victory Park square there is a stele 141.8 m high (10 cm for each day of the war), crowned with the goddess of victory Nike. At the foot of the obelisk, on a granite podium, there is a statue that kills a snake with a spear - a symbol of the victory of good over evil.

The stele on Poklonnaya Hill by Z. Tsereteli was criticized - it was called either a “chisel”, then “a woman on a needle”, then a “chisel”, then a “crucified fly”, or “locust on a needle”. The sculptor was accused of using a “weapon of war” (the bayonet) and it was slandered that St. George “cuts the snake like boiled sausage.” Nevertheless, Nika, fixed on one point of support, and the system of dampers that keep it from swaying in the wind, became an engineering breakthrough.

But the artist’s gift to Moscow - the monument “Tragedy of Nations” - was not appreciated or understood, and was removed deeper into the park.

There is also an open-air exhibition of military equipment and engineering and fortification structures in Victory Park. More than 300 samples of heavy equipment from the USSR, Germany and other countries that took part in the battles are presented here. Lots of captured equipment.

Poklonnaya Hill is a place of religious tolerance. Three churches of different faiths coexist here.

The memorial mosque was opened on September 6, 1997. The memorial synagogue “Temple of Memory of Jewish Victims of the Holocaust” was built in 1998 in memory of more than 6,000,000 Jews exterminated during World War II. And in 1993, the Church of St. George the Victorious was founded, since it was on the day of memory of St. George fascist Germany admitted herself defeated.

In 2003, a chapel was opened in Victory Park in memory of the Spanish volunteers who died in the Great Patriotic War. In addition, they plan to erect a Buddhist stupa, an Armenian chapel and a Catholic temple on Poklonnaya Hill.

Victory Park in photographs from different years:

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