The three bayonets represent the union of the infantry, artillery, and air forces in the 1944 liberation of Vitebsk.
The memorial was officially inaugurated in 1974 to mark the 30th anniversary of the city's liberation.
The total height of the obelisks reaches 56 meters, making them prominent landmarks visible from various parts of the city.
The base of the memorial incorporates a large mosaic cycle illustrating the heroism of the local partisans and military personnel.
The site includes a burial ground for soldiers who died during the fighting to reclaim the city from German occupation.
The architectural design utilizes a specific tripod geometry that maintains structural stability while mimicking the form of cold steel bayonets.
The Memorial'nyy Kompleks Tri Shtyka, or Three Bayonets Memorial, is a monumental tribute to the liberation of Vitebsk during World War II. The structure features three 56-meter tall concrete obelisks arranged in a tripod formation, symbolizing the bravery of the three branches of the Soviet military: infantry, artillery, and aviation. Beneath the bayonets sits an eternal flame, which is centrally located within a wide memorial plaza. A mosaic relief depicting scenes from the war and the city's reconstruction surrounds the lower perimeter. The site was designed by architects V. Dzyadko and Y. Shpigelman and sculptor Y. Padgayny. It serves as the primary location for city-wide commemorations of Victory Day.
From the river embankment path looking upward to capture the convergence of the three obelisks.
Walk the perimeter of the plaza to view the full scope of the detailed mosaic reliefs.
Plan your visit to allow time for the adjacent riverbank promenade walk.
Visit during dusk when the memorial is illuminated for a different perspective of the structures.
Avoid climbing on the base structures or disturbing the integrity of the eternal flame area.
Maintain a respectful tone as the site contains burial grounds and functions as a war memorial.
