The site commemorates the single largest mass murder of Soviet Jews during the Holocaust.
In 1942, Nazi soldiers used the ravine to execute victims who were forced to gather under the pretext of relocation.
The memorial complex was officially opened in 1975 to commemorate the victims of the fascist occupiers.
The central sculptural composition represents mothers, children, and elderly people in their final moments.
The Zmiyevskaya Balka memorial in Rostov-on-Don is the largest site in Russia dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust. It marks the location of the mass execution of approximately 27,000 citizens, primarily Jewish, by Nazi forces in August 1942. The site features a central bronze sculpture of grieving figures and a tall, stylized pylon representing a flame. It is set within a ravine, preserved as a site of historical tragedy. The complex serves as the primary remembrance location for the occupation of Rostov-on-Don during the Great Patriotic War.
From the elevated path looking down toward the central pylon and the bronze sculptural group.
Allow extra time to walk from the memorial entrance down into the ravine area.
Bring water as there are very limited services directly on the memorial grounds.
Maintain a low volume when visiting as the site functions as a cemetery and place of mourning.
Do not treat the site as a public park; refrain from picnicking or recreational sports.
Dress modestly as it is a memorial site; refrain from loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
