Monument to the Executed Hostages from Nowy Sącz

The sculpture, which can currently be admired as a decorative element along Juliusz Słowacki Avenue in Wrocław, is a 1:2 scale model of a monument commemorating the hostages murdered during the Nazi occupation in Nowy Sącz. It was designed by Władysław Hasior between 1966 and 1968. Although the artist received a ministerial award for this work, the full-scale monument was never realized in its original form due to opposition from local authorities. They interpreted the depicted figures as a reference to the crucifixion of Christ, which led to the project's rejection. When plans for the monument were revisited in 1975, the symbolism of the burning fire began to be interpreted as an allusion to the partisan Józef Kuraś, nicknamed "Ogień" (Fire), which continued to stir controversy. In 1971, the sculpture was acquired by the Museum of Architecture in Wrocław and placed in its current location. During the 1970s, museum staff honored All Saints' Day by lighting the fire in the sculpture, but this tradition gradually faded, with the last ignition taking place in 2003. The sculptural composition consists of four elements resembling human figures, symbolizing the martyrdom of the victims. Each sculpture features a trough for fuel, from which a burning flame would emerge, serving as a lasting symbol of remembrance for the murdered hostages. The monument represents an important element in both architectural and cultural contexts, serving as a reminder of tragic historical events and playing a role in preserving historical memory.