The Motherland or The Motherland Calls or the Mamayev Monument in Russia is a statue of a woman with a sword raised to the sky at the beginning of the Battle of Stalingrad. The statue also served as a symbol of Soviet victory during World War II, where the Red Army defeated German troops. A more literal translation of the statue’s name is “My Motherland is Calling Me”, referring to the metaphorical Mother Russia. At the time of construction, this 85 m tall (279 ft) and 8,000 ton monument was the world’s tallest sculpture in Russia.
Architect Yevgeny Vuchetic used local model Valentina Izotova as the basis for the sculpture. Prestressed concrete with wire ropes is used in the construction of the monument. The statue has the expression of a mother standing against her children and calling for struggle for the motherland. Strong powerful arms, open-mouthed screams in a ruthless expression, and statuesque presence create a sense of power.
Pratima looks best in all seasons. The statue surrounded by memorial buildings, including the mausoleum of General Vasily Chuikov. As the site’s rising water table could collapse, construction of the statue was relatively hasty. Currently, restoration work is underway to bring the structure to an upright position.
How to Reach The Motherland Calls
- Getting to The Motherland Calls in Volgograd is easy as it is accessible by both flights and trains.
- Visitors can take a flight to Volgograd International Airport and then board a train to Volgograd, which is approximately 24 kilometers away.
- The train journey takes around 14 minutes to reach the monument.
Information about the Motherland Calls Tour:
Discover some fascinating facts about The Motherland Calls, a significant statue in Russia that draws not only locals but also tourists from around the world each year. Here are a few Important facts:
• The famous sculptor Yevgeny Vuchetich designed The Motherland Calls in collaboration with structural engineer Nikolai Nikitin after the battle was over. In 1967, this statue declared the tallest in the world, and it still holds the title of the tallest statue in Europe and the tallest statue of a woman in the world.
• The monument has 200 steps from the base to the foot of the statue, representing the 200 days of the Battle of Stalingrad. The statue unveiled on October 15, 1967.
• The statue sent a strong message to the world that Russia was not to be considered a weaker nation, standing tall and strong against all adversities. This message was especially powerful during a time when other countries viewed Russia as a feeble contestant. The unveiling of the statue as the world’s largest left the entire world in awe of Russia’s strength and determination.
Measurements
In 1967, during its dedication, the memorial stood as the world’s tallest statue, measuring from the tip of its sword to the top of its plinth. The plinth measures an additional height, and it installed on a concrete foundation that has a depth of . The figure’s dimensions are , and the sword’s length measures .
The monument weighs over , and it contains tonnes of concrete and tons of metal structures, with the sword alone weighing . The statue’s frame reinforced by 99 metal cables that remain constantly in tension, ensuring its stability.
Dedication
At the base of the hill, there are two hundred steps, symbolizing the 200 days of the Battle of Stalingrad, leading up to the monument. This statue is prominently featured on both the current flag and coat of arms of Volgograd Oblast.
The monument’s location also serves as the burial site for Marshal of the Soviet Union Vasily Ivanovich Chuikov and the renowned Soviet sniper Vasily Zaytsev, who single-handedly killed 225 soldiers and officers of the German army and their allies during the Battle of Stalingrad.
The monument is the focal point of the triptych, which includes the “Rear-Front” monument in Magnitogorsk and the “Warrior-Liberator” monument in Berlin’s Treptower Park. The sword, which was forged near the Urals, was later hoisted by Motherland in Stalingrad and then lowered after the victory in Berlin.
Things To Do Around The Motherland Calls:
There are several attractions to explore in the surrounding area of The Motherland Calls monument. Here are a few things to do and see:
1. The Eternal Flame:
The Memorial Hall features a massive hand supporting an eternal flame. It adorned with the names of fallen soldiers. As well as sentries holding rifles from World War II. This location serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by brave soldiers who gave their lives for their country. Similar to India’s Amar Jawan Jyoti memorial at the India Gate, the Eternal Flame pays tribute to the Russian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation.
2. Hall Of Military Glory:
This location houses the names of the fallen soldiers. Serving as a tribute to their unwavering dedication and sacrifices for the nation. Be sure to bring a handkerchief, as the site is sure to evoke a deep sense of patriotic emotion within you. It serves as a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made by our soldiers to ensure the safety and security of our nation.
3. Mamayev Hill Monument:
The monument commemorates the site where the Soviet Union soldiers defeated the German army during World War II. It is a destination of great significance. From its height, you can take in a breathtaking view of the entire city of Volgograd. The statue is particularly impressive when viewed from this vantage point. The entire complex serves as a tribute to the Battle of Stalingrad. Standing atop this monument is an unparalleled experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Location:
The Motherland Monument in the city of Volgograd (Stalingrad) on the Mamayev Kurgan hill commemorates the beginning of the struggle on the battlefield. The city of Volgograd, formerly known as Stalingrad. It located on the banks of the Volga River in southern Russia. You can get to the statue by taxi from Volgograd International Airport.
The Motherland Calls in Russia Map:
Best time to visit:
One of the most important monuments in Russia, The Motherland Calls, situated in Volgograd and is open to visitors during the months of May, September, and October. These months offer milder weather conditions with less rainfall, providing an ideal time to visit.