Monument to Those Who Died Defending the Homeland in Częstochowa

The Monument to Those Who Fell in Defense of the Homeland in Częstochowa is a monumental structure dedicated to the soldiers who fought for Poland's independence, located in the National Memory Square. Its architecture consists of two granite columns, one of which is adorned with the inscription "POLEGŁYM W OBRONIE OJCZYZNY" (To Those Who Fell in Defense of the Homeland) and an eagle figure, while the other features sculptures of soldiers. On the base of the monument, six urns containing soil collected from historic battlefields and memorial sites related to World War II are placed. The monument, created by a team of artists including Wincenty Kućma, was part of a nationwide competition that selected its design in 1983. The cornerstone was laid on May 6, 1983, and the unveiling took place on September 1, 1985, the anniversary of the outbreak of World War II. The construction cost was estimated at 90 million złoty. The structure also features 185 sculptures with a total weight of 20 tons, cast in Gliwice and Częstochowa. After 1989, the monument underwent changes, with its symbolism expanded to include the Polish Legions and the victims of Soviet crimes. Interestingly, in 2000, the urns containing soil were stolen, which led to the need for their recreation. Today, the monument is a significant landmark in Częstochowa, serving as a testament to the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for national freedom.