Carved in stone, the Memento: Az 1945–56 között kivégzettek emlékműve stands as a stark reminder. It commemorates those lost to communist terror in Hungary. The Memento: Az 1945–56 között kivégzettek emlékműve was created by Péterfy László in 1998. It is located near the Petőfi Bridge and the A38. The sculpture’s location, in the Egyetemisták Parkja (University Students’ Park), adds another layer of poignancy. This park, once a place of youthful vibrancy, now bears witness to a dark chapter.
Two imposing stone slabs rise atop a staircase at the Memento: Az 1945–56 között kivégzettek emlékműve. They face each other, their inner surfaces bearing carved heads. Below these heads are etched the names of the victims. The inscription “PRO PATRIA 1945–56” marks their sacrifice for their homeland.
The Memento: Az 1945–56 között kivégzettek emlékműve carries powerful inscriptions. On the right slab, the Hungarian coat of arms is displayed. Below it, the inscription “A HAZÁÉRT ÉLTEK HALTAK” (They lived and died for the homeland) resonates. The left slab bears a dedication. It acknowledges the support of former political prisoners. It also recognizes the social solidarity that led to the memorial’s creation.
Lines from Gérecz Attila’s poem “Élet című” are etched on the back of the right slab. These words evoke the spirit of resistance against oppression. The left side bears another inscription. It calls for remembrance of the Hungarian patriots executed or martyred between 1945 and 1956. It specifically honors those who resisted the occupying Soviet army and the subsequent communist dictatorship. Since 2000, February 25th has been designated as the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Communism in Hungary. The Memento: Az 1945–56 között kivégzettek emlékműve stands as a focal point for this solemn occasion.