Monument to the Polish Soldier in Grudziądz

The Monument to the Polish Soldier, also known as the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, is located in the central part of the market square in Grudziądz. After Poland regained independence in 1918 and Grudziądz returned to the Second Polish Republic in 1920, the community began removing German monuments. In 1925, the pedestal of the Otto von Bismarck monument was repurposed to create a modest Monument to the Unknown Soldier. However, this was only a temporary solution, as a more substantial tribute to the soldiers was planned. In 1927, a civic construction committee was established, headed by Julian Szychowski, which commissioned the design from Stanisław Jackowski. The new monument was unveiled on November 30, 1930, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Pomerania's return to Poland and the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the November Uprising. Combining a dynamic statue of a soldier with a historical pedestal, the monument quickly gained popularity and became a site for patriotic demonstrations. During World War II, the monument was destroyed by the Nazis, and it was not restored to its original state for a long time after the war. In 1986, a replica by Ewelina and Henryk Siwicki was unveiled, and in 2010, the monument was placed on a new pedestal, restored to its historical style, with the participation of then Polish President Bronisław Komorowski. The Monument to the Polish Soldier not only commemorates the sacrifices made but also serves as a significant element of Grudziądz's culture and history, symbolizing Poland's freedom and independence. It highlights the long journey toward national remembrance and the strong connection of the local community with the history of their city.