Park of Eternal Glory | Kyiv

Park of Eternal Glory (Ukrainian: Парк Вічної Слави) is one of Kyiv’s most solemn and historically significant public parks. Overlooking the Dnipro River, it serves both as a scenic green space and a memorial complex honoring those who died defending Ukraine, particularly during World War II and the Holodomor famine. Located in the Pechersk district, near the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra and Arsenalna metro station, the park covers approximately 19 hectares.

🕰️ Historical Background

The origins of the park date back to 1894, when the then-commandant of the Kyiv Pechersk Fortress, Lieutenant General Oleksiy Anosov, initiated the creation of a landscaped garden on what was then military territory. This early version of the park was called Anosov Garden or the Commandant’s Garden.

In the 20th century, especially after World War II, the area was transformed into a memorial park. The Soviet authorities reimagined it as a place of reverence to commemorate the soldiers who fell in the war and eventually, in the post-Soviet period, its role expanded to include the remembrance of the victims of the Holodomor—the genocidal famine of 1932–1933.

🏛️ Key Monuments and Memorials

1. Memorial of Eternal Glory

Unveiled: 1957

Main Element: A 27-meter-high granite obelisk, which stands on a large square and symbolizes the courage and sacrifice of those who died during World War II.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: At the base of the obelisk, an eternal flame burns in honor of the unidentified soldiers who gave their lives. This is a common symbolic element in many post-Soviet war memorials and is a focal point for official commemorations.

2. Alley of Heroes

A tree-lined path that leads from the park entrance to the obelisk.

Burial Sites: Flanked by the graves of 34 Soviet heroes who died during WWII, this alley acts as a solemn procession route toward the Memorial of Eternal Glory.

The atmosphere is intentionally quiet and reflective, lined with flowers and visited frequently by veterans and mourners.

3. National Museum of the Holodomor-Genocide

Established: 2008

Purpose: Dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holodomor, the man-made famine orchestrated by the Stalinist regime, which killed millions of Ukrainians.

Key Features:

Candle of Memory Tower: A striking tower that resembles a lit candle, visible from various parts of Kyiv, symbolizing mourning and remembrance.

Statue “Bitter Memory of Childhood”: A bronze sculpture of a frail, barefoot girl clutching stalks of wheat, representing children who died during the famine.

Black Boards of Memory: A solemn installation listing the names of Ukrainian villages that were most devastated during the famine.

🌳 Natural and Scenic Features

The Park of Eternal Glory is not just a historical and memorial site but also a beautifully landscaped area that offers:

Sweeping views of the Dnipro River, the Left Bank of Kyiv, and the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.

Terraced walkways that descend toward the river, creating natural amphitheaters and viewpoints.

A variety of tree species—including maple, birch, linden, poplar, and spruce—that provide shade and color throughout the seasons.

Numerous benches and quiet alcoves, ideal for reflection or rest.

It is popular with joggers, families, and those seeking a tranquil place to walk or sit, especially during the spring and autumn months when the foliage is particularly beautiful.

📍 Location and Accessibility

Address: 15 Lavrska Street, Kyiv, Ukraine

Public Transit: The Arsenalna metro station (Red Line) is the closest, located just a 10-minute walk away.

Opening Hours: The park is open 24/7; the museum has specific hours.

Admission: Access to the park is free. The Holodomor Museum charges a modest entrance fee.

🧭 Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance

The park is a site of national importance and hosts annual memorial ceremonies, particularly on Victory Day (May 9) and Holodomor Remembrance Day (the fourth Saturday in November).

Photographic opportunities abound due to its elevation and architectural beauty. It is one of the best places to photograph Kyiv’s skyline and river.

It is also emotionally impactful, often prompting silent contemplation due to the weight of the historical tragedies it commemorates.

There is educational value, especially for visitors interested in Ukraine’s history, resilience, and identity.

Summary

The Park of Eternal Glory is far more than a recreational area. It is a landscape of remembrance, a place where beauty and sorrow coexist. Whether you come to stroll among the trees, admire the views, or pay respects at its monuments, the park invites quiet reflection on Ukraine’s past and enduring spirit.