The Motherland Monument is the tallest monumental sculpture in Europe, rising 102 metres high and standing as one of Kyiv’s most recognisable symbols. Its construction took more than ten years, during which the project’s lead engineers changed twice. The monument was completed in 1981 by renowned Ukrainian sculptor Vasyl Borodai, who also created several of Kyiv’s best-known landmarks, including the Monument to the Founders of Kyiv.
The statue went through around eleven design concepts. Early versions showed the figure holding a bowl, a child or a laurel branch, but the final design settled on the image with a sword and shield.
The monument features two observation decks with panoramic views of the city and the Dnipro River:
- 36.6 m, at the base (entry fee: 150 UAH);
- 91 m, on the shield (advance booking required, entry fee: 1,000 UAH).
Beneath the statue is the War Museum, with engaging exhibitions and an outdoor display of real military equipment, making it easy to combine both into one informative visit.
