Monument to heroes of War of 1812 in Vitebsk

In the very heart of Vitebsk, on the picturesque Assumption Hill, stands a majestic 26-meter obelisk made of red granite. For more than a century, it has reminded people of the heroism of Russian soldiers who fought in the War of 1812 against Napoleon. Crowned with a double-headed eagle, the monument has become one of the city's key attractions, worth seeing when going on tours across Belarus.

The Historic Battle of Vitebsk

In July 1812, fierce battles unfolded near Vitebsk. The infantry and cavalry regiments of Generals Osterman-Tolstoy, Konovnitsyn, and Uvarov bravely held back Napoleon's advancing army. Their goal was to allow the armies of Barclay de Tolly and Bagration to unite. Despite their determined resistance, Vitebsk was temporarily abandoned.

Napoleon in Vitebsk

The location of the monument was not chosen by chance. It was here, in a building that has survived to this day, that the Vitebsk Governor-General's Palace stood. Napoleon stayed in this palace for more than two weeks, reviewing his guard. However, on October 26, 1812, Vitebsk was liberated after intense battles.

The Creation of the Monument

The idea of commemorating the city's defenders belonged to the Vitebsk Scholarly Archival Commission. The monument was inaugurated in December 1912. It was funded by private donations, and the project was designed by architect Ivan Fomenko. Today, the monument is an essential part of tours across Belarus, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

Memorial Park

In addition to the obelisk dedicated to the heroes of the War of 1812, the park also features a memorial dedicated to soldiers who perished during World War II. This place has become a symbol of remembrance and heroism for multiple generations of the city's defenders.

Tour

When planning a tour from Minsk to Vitebsk, be sure to take a walk around Assumption Hill. From its summit, breathtaking views of the city open up, especially beautiful in the evening.