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Motherland Monument

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Motherland Monument (Ukraine)

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The Motherland Monument in Kyiv is one of the tallest statues in the world, standing as a dominant feature of the city skyline. Crafted from stainless steel, the monumental figure overlooks the Dnieper River and is part of a significant national museum complex. At 102 meters tall, it surpasses the height of the Statue of Liberty, representing a remarkable feat of structural engineering. The statue holds a 16-meter sword and a massive shield, which in 2023 was updated to feature the Ukrainian trident instead of Soviet symbols. Designed by Yevgeny Vuchetich and unveiled in 1981, it was originally a tribute to victory in World War II. Today, it serves as a powerful symbol of national resilience and the ongoing transformation of Ukrainian identity. Visitors can take elevators to observation decks for sweeping views of the capital and its surrounding landscapes. The monument remains an essential destination for understanding the complex and evolving layers of modern Ukrainian history. Its imposing presence continues to inspire a sense of strength and endurance in the hearts of all who visit.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-519161922211582-4
Rain mm434242416773655048504550

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Visitors can easily walk around the expansive surrounding park complex to view the massive monument from multiple angles, while entering the museum located in the pedestal base requires purchasing an admission ticket on site.
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Typical hours
The extensive outdoor memorial park is generally accessible throughout the daytime and early evening hours, while the indoor museum exhibitions operate on standard daytime schedules and are usually closed on Mondays or specific national holidays.
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Photography
The towering statue provides incredible photographic opportunities, especially when illuminated against the dramatic evening sky, and capturing the sweeping panoramic views of the river landscape from the surrounding terrace is highly recommended.
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Time needed
Exploring the immediate grounds and viewing the monument usually takes around an hour, but you should allocate at least two to three hours if you plan to carefully explore the fascinating indoor museum and the surrounding military hardware exhibits.
Combine with
This iconic landmark is perfectly situated to be combined with a profound visit to the broader Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II complex, making for a truly comprehensive day of experiencing the capital's deep historical heritage.
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Getting there
The complex can be reached by a moderately strenuous uphill walk from the nearest metro station, or more comfortably via local buses or ride-sharing services that can drop you off much closer to the main entrance gates of the expansive park area.
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Insider tip
For the best visual experience and fewer crowds, aim to arrive either early in the morning to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, or during the late afternoon hours when the golden sunlight beautifully highlights the texture of the stainless steel structure.

Geography

Coordinates
50.42650, 30.56310

Facts

  • Stands 102 meters tall from the base to the tip of the sword
  • Constructed from 450 tons of stainless steel plates
  • Officially opened in 1981 by the Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev
  • The Soviet emblem on the shield was replaced by the Tryzub in 2023
  • The sword alone weighs 9 tons and measures 16 meters in length
  • Features two observation decks for tourists, one at 36 and one at 91 meters

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Sights in the town Motherland Monument (7)

Motherland Monument

Monument in Ukraine, a 62-meter-tall statue on the museum grounds.

National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War🏛 museum

Historical museum in Kyiv, Ukraine, documents World War II.

🕒 Mo-Fr 10:00-19:00; Sa-Su 10:00-20:00💶

Museum "Making of the Ukrainian Nation"🏛 museum

Museum in Kyiv, Ukraine, dedicated to the formation of the Ukrainian nation.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-20:00💶

T-64BV

T-64BV tank, displayed outdoors near the museum.

Fire of Glory🏛 museum

Museum in Kyiv, Ukraine, likely a memorial with an eternal flame.

Navodnitsky Park🌳 park

Park-monument of landscape art in Kyiv, Ukraine, on the Dnipro riverbank.

Bell Tower of Far Caves🗼 tower

Church building in Kyiv, Ukraine, bell tower of the Far Caves of the Lavra.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the Motherland Monument?
The statue is 62 meters tall, reaching a total height of 102 meters with the pedestal.
Has the Soviet emblem on the shield been removed?
Yes, in 2023 the Soviet emblem was replaced with the Ukrainian trident (Tryzub).
Can you go up inside the statue?
There are elevators to observation decks at 36 and 91 meters (the latter requires special permission).
What material is the statue made of?
The sculpture is made of stainless steel and weighs about 450 tons.
What is at the base of the monument?
At the base is the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War.
Motherland Monument: where is it located?
Motherland Monument is located in Ukraine.
Motherland Monument: what is there to see?
Highlights include Motherland Monument, National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War, Museum "Making of the Ukrainian Nation".
Motherland Monument: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Motherland Monument: why is it worth visiting?
The Motherland Monument in Kyiv is one of the tallest statues in the world, standing as a dominant feature of the city skyline.
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