National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War is a monumental museum complex that sits on the hills of Pechersk, not far from the Paton Bridge. Its exhibitions highlight the Ukrainian people’s fight for independence — not only during the two world wars, but also in the context of the ongoing war today. The museum’s collection includes over 400,000 artifacts related to 20th-century conflicts on Ukrainian territory, along with more than 20,000 items collected since Russia’s full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022.
A standout part of the museum is the exhibition Ukraine – Crucifixion — the world’s first permanent display created during an active war. Using original objects and photographs from towns unoccupied in 2022, it offers a stark look at the realities of Russian aggression. The exhibition has received international awards and was nominated for European Museum of the Year 2024.
In addition to its exhibition halls, the complex is home to the Mother Ukraine monument — the tallest stainless steel statue in Europe — and an open-air display of military equipment once used in actual combat.
