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Museums #12 in Kiev

National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War

4.7 · 24,538 reviews
Formal and solemn
National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War, Lavrska St, 27, Kyiv, Ukraine, 02000
Interesting facts
1

The Motherland monument is taller than the Statue of Liberty when measured from its pedestal base.

2

The shield held by the statue weighs 13 tons and includes a maintenance elevator inside.

3

The monument is engineered to withstand a magnitude 9 earthquake.

4

The museum complex covers over 10 hectares of land.

5

The statue's surface consists of individually welded stainless steel plates totaling 450 tons.

6

The flame of the 'Flame of Glory' is supplied by natural gas and is kept burning continuously.

Overview

The National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War is a vast memorial complex situated on the Pechersk hills overlooking the Dnieper River. Its centerpiece is the 'Motherland' monument, a 62-meter stainless steel statue wielding a sword and shield. The museum houses over 400,000 artifacts documenting Ukraine's involvement in the Second World War. Exhibitions are spread across an indoor main museum located beneath the statue's plinth and extensive outdoor areas featuring heavy military hardware. Recent updates to the site include the replacement of the Soviet-era hammer and sickle emblem on the shield with the Ukrainian Tryzub. The memorial complex includes the Alley of Hero Cities and the Flame of Glory. Visitors can explore the scale of the site through its winding paths and panoramic viewpoints. The site functions as both a historical institution and a national memorial dedicated to wartime sacrifices.

Photo spot

The lower observation deck near the Dnieper cliffs provides a wide-angle view of the statue and the city skyline.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site is expansive and involves significant inclines.

Plan to visit the outdoor military equipment exhibition before the indoor museum if the weather is favorable.

Bring water, as the elevated location offers limited shade during the summer.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb the monument structure, as public access to the statue's interior is restricted.

Good to know

The main exhibition hall is typically closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful tone in the Flame of Glory area and near memorial plaques, as this is a site of national mourning.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn to avoid the intense heat of summer while navigating the open outdoor spaces.
Address
National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War, Lavrska St, 27, Kyiv, Ukraine, 02000
50.427, 30.563
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsMotherland Monument, Alley of Hero Cities, WWII armored vehicles and aircraft.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn to avoid the intense heat of summer while navigating the open outdoor spaces..

The lower observation deck near the Dnieper cliffs provides a wide-angle view of the statue and the city skyline.

Close by you'll find Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, Kyiv National Botanical Garden, St. Michael's Vydubytsky Men's Monastery.